The latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) illustrate the unprecedented challenges young people are facing in the current job market.
16.1% of jobseekers aged 16 to 24 are struggling to find work, compared to a national unemployment figure of 5.1%, against a background of rising employment costs for traditional entry-level jobs.
In a recent interview with the BBC, young people attending The Platform Project in Swindon explained the struggles they face, with one jobseeker submitting 260 job applications in 2025 without success.
With new challenges including the rise of AI combined with a sluggish economy across the UK, finding that first rung on the jobs ladder is proving to be a full-time role in itself for many young people.
The Platform Project hopes that, with the ongoing support of the local community, it can give young people across the Swindon and Wiltshire area a headstart in securing that all-important first job. The not-for-profit provides a range of services including mentoring, tutoring, enterprise skills, career development and support in completing qualifications to help disadvantaged and vulnerable young people build the skills, experience and confidence they need to succeed in the workplace.
Alongside this, the organisation is calling for more employer partnerships to help young people access the real-world experiences that can make the difference when applying for work. These include ‘day-in-the-life-of’ visits for different roles, structured work experience, employability coaching volunteers and early access to entry-level vacancies before they are advertised on the open market. These opportunities can help young people gain insight into the world of work, build practical skills and secure meaningful experience that boosts their chances of employment.
There is also an opportunity for local businesses to raise their own visibility by supporting this work. TWC Home Improvements has recently partnered with The Platform Project to deliver ‘day-in-the-life’ sessions across a range of roles from design and marketing to installations and sales. The Platform Project is now appealing for more SMEs across the region to get involved and offer similar opportunities
CEO Sadie Sharp said, “There’s a perfect storm at the moment, and unfortunately, this generation seeking their first opportunities lies squarely in its path. The rise in National Insurance and minimum wage, plus the threat of jobs being replaced by AI, is having a disastrous effect.
“Our first jobs are vital in shaping us as people, teaching us both the soft and hard skills we need to succeed in many avenues of life. At The Platform Project we’re proud to be able to play a role in supporting young people into work, but we can’t do it alone.
“With the right support from businesses and organisations across the region we can help to equip our young people with the skills and experience they need to be competitive in the jobs market, to find that first rung on the ladder and to start along a successful and rewarding career path.”
The Platform Project, which will celebrate its 10th anniversary in 2027, is appealing for support to face these current challenges head-on.
Find out more at PlatformProject.co.uk
Pictured: Sadie Sharp
