The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued a seismic announcement as it attempts to help get one million people into work. The DWP Youth Guarantee has been launched in a bid to 'ensure one million young people have access to employment, training or education'.
£2.5 Billion Investment
The DWP, which says the scheme will be backed by an eye-watering £2.5 billion investment, has also confirmed that the former head of Marks and Spencer (M&S) will help spearhead the programme. Ex-M&S chief Marc Bolland has been appointed to help implement Youth Guarantee reforms, bringing the voice of businesses into policy delivery. He will also advise Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden on the Government’s response to the Alan Milburn Review.
Government Response
McFadden said: 'The number of young people not in education, employment or training is a serious challenge that has been allowed to persist for too long. That is why I asked Alan Milburn to look hard at the underlying causes and what it will take to fix them. Marc Bolland’s appointment sends a clear signal that we are serious about tackling that challenge. His track record in business and through Movement to Work make him uniquely placed to bring employers together and open up real opportunities for young people who need them most.'
McFadden added: 'I’ve also commissioned senior officials in my department to look at how we go even further in the support we provide young people – particularly young people with health conditions. And I’ve asked that that be done together with employers, charities, disabled people’s organisations and young people themselves.'
Business Leader's Role
Bolland said: 'As founder and chairman of Movement to Work we have, in close cooperation with DWP, brought over 200,000 NEETs into work and I am honoured and passionate to join the DWP now. I believe the Government is serious about tackling this generational crisis of youth unemployment, and I know that working hand in hand with business to support young people gives them the best possible chance of success.'
