London £20m youth jobs scheme branded failure as only 42% succeed
Only 1,100 of 2,600 young Londoners found work or study through a £20m government-backed initiative, sparking political criticism over its poor results.
Less than half of young people supported by two government-backed schemes in London have secured work or training, according to new official figures. Data from the Greater London Authority revealed that only 1,100 of 2,600 young Londoners enrolled in the £20m Youth Guarantee Trailblazer project progressed into employment or further education.
Conservative peer Shaun Bailey branded the initiative a "failure", urging ministers to support employers directly. However, Skills Minister Jacqui Smith defended the scheme, stating that it targets individuals furthest from the labour market and remains in its early days.
Office for National Statistics figures show nearly one million young people across Britain are not in education, employment, or training. The scheme delivers careers mentoring and mental health support across twelve London boroughs, with ministers preparing a comprehensive review next week.
Source: BBC London
