Pic: Cade Martin
Young people make for a big part of Croydon’s population. Although that brings a lot of positive things, there is a downside, with 5.4 per cent of youngsters claiming work benefits; nearly three points above national averages.
With this in mind, the council is staging an “employment extravaganza” aimed at people between 16-25.
Recent statistics show why the council might have decided to organise an event aimed for that specific age group; those between 18-24 amount to an average of 5.4 per cent claimant count for out-of-work benefits, as compared to only 3.5 per cent in those aged 25-49.
Taking a look at Croydon’s unemployment outside of the restriction of the age group, two categories amount for more than half of those economically inactive: students, and family/home carers.
Of those, a staggering amount – almost 40 per cent more – do not want a job versus those who do:
There is no specific data tracking how many of those within the age bracket of 16-25 want or do not want a job, but Croydon Council said that the event will be held in aims to ‘help young people plant their feet firmly on the career ladder.’
At Croydon Live, youngsters will have the opportunity to get free careers advice, meet employers and training providers, and apply for live vacancies and opportunities. The event is free, open to anyone aged 16-25 living or studying in Croydon. It comes after some concerns were raised in January following the closure of the Jobcentre Plus in Croydon.
A spokesperson said: “Croydon Live event is part of the Choose Your Future campaign Croydon Council and partner organisations are preparing to launch this month. Shaped by young people from across the borough, Choose Your Future is about encouraging positive life choices. The campaign focuses on the priorities young people highlighted at Croydon’s first ever youth congress this year – helping them stay safe and access local employment opportunities.”
The employment fair will take place on Thursday from 2-5 p.m at the TMRW hub, where a wide range of positions will be on offer including full-time, part-time and seasonal vacancies, as well as training opportunities.
Councillor Alisa Flemming, cabinet member for children, young people and learning said: “As London’s growth borough, Croydon is full of fantastic opportunities and our young people are full of energy, enthusiasm and ambition. We are giving them a voice and listening – it’s great to hear that employment opportunities are a priority for them; they are keen to know what’s out there and how they can access it.
“If you are a Croydon resident aged 16-25 or attend a Croydon school or college, and you are looking for employment, I would urge you to get along to Croydon Live. This is a great opportunity to get free careers advice and meet employers and training providers – you can get help applying for live vacancies and opportunities on the spot.”
Full address of the event: TMRW hub, 75-77 High Street, Croydon. For more information visit www.croydon.gov.uk/croydonlive
