Young people are often caught in a catch22; no experience but need the experience to get into work. 

The year 2020 as a whole has brought a lot of changes and re-adaptations within the workplace. With the unprecedented challenges that employers have been faced with due to COVID-19, the resilience, adaptability and digital acumen of young people is evidently crucial for our economic recovery. 

At Access Generation, we believe that an opportunity has arisen for young people to share their ideas and expectations with employers and encourage a positive and inclusive work culture. Young people want to work for an employer who embraces diversity and inclusion, demonstrates its purpose and offers opportunities for progression. Employers want to become more attractive and visible to young people. 

So, what’s the barrier? 

The online job application process and what an employer says about itself is not meeting young people’s expectations.

We researched over 600 employer websites and their job application processes and found;

• 3 out of 4 did not offer entry-level roles
• Only 1% of employers show that they care and state when feedback is available
• 1 in 3 applications ‘felt like they were being submitted into a black hole’
• Only 5% of employers gave examples of opportunities for progression
• Only 5% of employers demonstrated a positive attitude towards diversity and inclusion

We want employers to pledge to...

• Accessible entry-level roles (remove the need for experience)
• Provide details of the recruitment processes including when feedback will be available
• Acknowledge receipt of all applications
• Provide examples of progression
• Embrace diversity and inclusion

Sign this petition to encourage employers to change and listen to the voices of young candidates! Show your support and share with your friends.

Find out more about the campaign by visiting www.accessgeneration.co.uk and join the conversation on social media using #AccessYourTruePotential 

Watch our Tedx Talk