First Jobs

I got my first job at 17 and did not go to university when I was young. I do not feel that young people are as ready for work and the workforce as they could be. We do not prepare young people sufficiently for the reality of working for a living and the discipline and responsibilities that follow. The current oppressive employment laws frighten employers who would otherwise offer the part-time jobs and Saturday posts that help to introduce young people into the realities of earning your keep. I would like to see more work placements, more apprenticeships and a greater focus on skills that are crucial to our future. I also want to help young people set up their own business like I did at 19 – the greatest challenge but the greatest opportunity for any young person.