An ambitious new survey aims to compare young people and employers’ opinions on the employment landscape in the region.
Both groups are being asked to give their perspective by DYW (Developing the Young Workforce) in a unique collaboration between DYW Moray and DYW North East.
One of the short surveys quizzes young people on how they perceive the opportunities available to them, while other asks employers how they find their future talent.
Running until the end of August, the survey is part of a pioneering project looking at how to reassure and inspire young people about their options in a challenging work environment.
Core industries
DYW North East director Mary Holland said: “The region has been hit by significant recent changes with the CV19 pandemic, Brexit and the decline and evolution of our core industries.
“We already know that there has been an alarming decrease in school leavers entering employment, or moving into training or further education.
But even with all the statistics and facts at our fingertips, we know anecdotally that there is a real feeling of hopelessness among young people in our region.
“We are here to offer guidance and support but it is important that we understand the scale of the task. If young people and employers can tell us directly what they see as the burning issues, we can address these perceptions to make our work more available and effective.
“For the first time, we are working in partnership with DYW Moray. We understand the challenges in our own areas and combining resources and experiences will let us deliver results with real impact.”
Seeking answers
The organisations are looking for 16-24 year olds as well as any employers with premises in Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire or Moray to complete the surveys.
“There is an extra incentive to complete the survey,” said Mary. “Every young person who completes the survey enters a draw for a brand new iPad, and businesses can win a £50 voucher for the charity of their choice.”
Following the results of the survey, the DYW organisations will work with partners across education and industry to influence the thinking on future initiatives. A follow-up survey in nine months will measure progress on the project.
The surveys can be completed through the links below:
Employer survey: http://emea.focusvision.com/survey/selfserve/21d2/210602
Young person survey: http://emea.focusvision.com/survey/selfserve/21d2/210600