Are you part of the business community in Scotland? Have you heard murmurings about the Young Person’s Guarantee (YPG)? Discover what it’s all about - and why the YPG is relevant to your organisation.
What is the YPG?
The Young Person’s Guarantee is a Scottish Government initiative to connect every 16-24 year old in Scotland to the opportunity of a job, placement, training or volunteering with employers who have committed to the Guarantee.
How does it work?
Employers support the YPG by completing a short pro forma; it makes five ‘asks’ in terms of supporting young people. You’ll need to outline the opportunities you can offer young people over the next 12 months, as well as activities you’d like to work towards in the future. Important: employers need NOT commit to all five asks.
What are the five employer asks?
The five YPG asks are listed below. If you already engage with your local school or college, you’re probably meeting one or more.
- Prepare young people for the world of work
- Create opportunities for young people who face the greatest barriers to work
- Invest in a skilled workforce
- Create jobs and apprenticeships for young people
- Create an inclusive workplace
What happens next?
As a YPG signatory, your organisation’s name will be listed on the Young Person’s Portal within the YPG website. This is helpful for young people who are looking for employers to approach for training, work experience or a job.
Is the YPG only for large employers?
Absolutely not. Sole traders, SMEs, social enterprises and third sector organisations can all get involved. Many employers are pleasantly surprised to discover that they are already meeting the YPG requirements. Again – remember you don’t need to commit to every one of the five asks.
Why get behind it?
The benefits are many and varied: raising your organisation’s profile, fulfilling corporate social responsibility (CSR) goals and motivating your staff team. Perhaps the strongest pull for employers is earlier access to future talent.
How do I find out more?
You can find out more about why you should sign up to the Young Person's Guarantee here. Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) North East can also support you through the process and submit forms on your behalf. Employers in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire should email info@dyw.org.uk to get in touch with the team.
Clare Scott is an Employer School Coordinator with Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) North East, linked with Bridge of Don Academy and Oldmachar Academy in Aberdeen. Contact her on clare@dyw.org.uk or follow her on Twitter @ClareDYWNE.
