SCOTLAND is one of the EU’s leading nations on tackling youth unemployment, with record numbers of young people in Scotland finding work.
Figures published last week by the Scottish Government showed a record low of 21,000 16 to 19 year olds not in education, employment or training in 2014 – the lowest number since comparable records began in 2004.
This is in stark contrast to the high level of youth unemployment still prevalent across the vast majority of the EU with more than 4.9 million young people unemployed across the EU.
Speaking at a Friends of Europe conference in Brussels, Scotland’s Cabinet Secretary for Fair Work, Skills and Training Roseanna Cunningham said: “I am delighted to be able to participate in this week’s debate with Commissioner Thyssen and to share Scotland’s learning and success in these areas with fellow EU countries who face similar circumstances of high youth unemployment to those Scotland faced several years ago.
“Recent Scottish statistics on youth employment showed Scotland had 21,000 16 to 19 year olds not in education, employment or training in 2014, the lowest number since comparable records began in 2004.
“These record low levels indicates Scotland is bucking the European trend when it comes to youth unemployment levels, with only five of the 28 EU Members States having a lower youth unemployment rate.
“Scotland has taken a unique approach to supporting people into employment, recognising the link between growing the economy and tackling inequality and implementing the Living Wage, as well as improving vocational training and providing more Modern Apprenticeships.
“Figures out at the weekend on women’s employment also showed that at 4 per cent, Scotland has the lowest rate of female unemployment of any country in Europe.
“So while we know there is more still to be done, our work in key areas to help people into work is reaping real dividends and today’s conference is a chance to highlight the unique Scottish approach to a number of significant European players.”
