Andy Burnham Urges Firms to Tackle Youth Unemployment Crisis

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has called on British companies to provide work experience for teenagers to combat a youth unemployment crisis. The initiative comes as the youth unemployment rate hits 16.4%, the highest since 2014, with over one million people aged 16 to 24 currently not in education, employment, or training.

In response to the call, J Sainsbury Plc announced it will offer 10,000 work experience placements across England, Scotland, and Wales starting in October. The program includes workplace visits and careers sessions specifically targeting deprived areas. The Labour government is also prioritizing vocational education and technical routes for students beginning at age 14.

Conservative spokeswoman Helen Whately criticized the government's approach, arguing that employment reforms and increased national insurance contributions have hindered hiring. Further welfare reforms are expected following a review conducted by Alan Milburn.