The Lerwick Jobcentre has unveiled plans for the upcoming year aimed at enhancing job opportunities for young individuals entering the workforce. By strengthening partnerships with local businesses and employers, the Jobcentre seeks to create a supportive environment for jobseekers, particularly those aged 18 to 24.
Employer advisor Sarah Keay reported a positive trend, with an 8% reduction in claimants aged 18 to 24 and a significant 27% decrease among individuals aged 50 and over. She emphasized that these figures highlight the effectiveness of employer engagement and personalized interventions implemented in the community. “Twenty-twenty-six is set to be a big year for us,” Keay said. “Our team is focused on building even stronger connections with businesses and helping even more jobseekers find the right roles.”
The Jobcentre plans to maintain close collaboration with employers, some of whom will recruit directly through the centre. In addition, the organization aims to expand its specialist support services, including tailored events for young people and the over-50 demographic. Notable partnerships, such as with the Shetland Community Bike Project, are intended to facilitate quicker job placements and improve the overall match between candidates and available positions across various sectors.
Keay underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in supporting young individuals as they transition into employment. Through alliances with organizations like the Moving On Employability Project, Employability Pathways, and Skills Development Scotland, the job seekers will have access to tailored guidance. This includes assistance with CV preparation, interview coaching, and direct connections with local employers, ensuring that each individual receives the right support at the right moment. “These partnerships create opportunities for young people to build confidence and take their next steps,” she noted.
The focus on youth employment aligns with broader national employment statistics, which currently indicate an employment rate of 74.7%, translating to approximately 2.6 million individuals in work. Pat McFadden, the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, highlighted these figures, noting there are 513,000 more people employed compared to the previous year. He acknowledged the ongoing need for further improvements, particularly for younger job seekers.
To address these needs, the government is investing £1.5 billion to create opportunities for hundreds of thousands of young people either entering the workforce or seeking educational pathways. Former health secretary Alan Milburn is spearheading a review aimed at identifying barriers hindering the younger generation’s employment prospects.
Through the launch of a new jobs guarantee this month, the government aims to assist young people in securing paid work placements. McFadden urged employers to join organizations such as EON, JD Sports, Tesco, and TUI, which have already pledged their support in this initiative.
As 2026 approaches, the Lerwick Jobcentre’s efforts reflect a commitment to fostering a robust employment landscape for young people, providing them with the necessary tools and connections to embark on successful career paths.
