A Million Unemployed Young People: How Can the Social Housing Sector Help?

Recent data reveals a staggering statistic: one million young people in the UK are not in education, employment, or training (NEET). This is not just a statistic; it’s a crisis that demands urgent action. As key players in communities across the country, social housing providers have a unique opportunity—and responsibility—to make a difference. But how can the sector step up to tackle this issue head-on?

The Role of Social Housing Providers in Tackling Youth Unemployment

Social housing providers are more than just landlords; they are employers, community builders, and catalysts for change. With a presence in some of the most deprived areas of the country, housing associations and councils are uniquely positioned to support young people into meaningful employment and training opportunities. Here’s how:

1. Becoming Employers of Choice

Housing associations and councils are significant employers in their own right. By prioritising apprenticeships, traineeships, and entry-level roles, these organisations can create pathways for young people to gain valuable skills and experience. For example, offering roles in property maintenance, customer service, or administration can provide a stepping stone into the workforce.

Programmes like Kickstart have shown promise, but social housing providers can go further by embedding youth employment initiatives into their long-term strategies. This not only benefits young people but also strengthens the workforce by bringing in fresh talent and diverse perspectives.

2. Building Skills Through Training Programmes

Many young people face barriers to employment due to a lack of skills or qualifications. Social housing providers can partner with local colleges, training providers, and community organisations to deliver tailored training programmes. These could include construction skills, digital literacy, or customer service training—areas that align with the needs of the housing sector.

For instance, housing associations involved in supported housing can offer training opportunities for young people interested in careers in care or social work. By bridging the gap between education and employment, these programmes can empower young people to achieve their potential.

3. Leveraging Development Projects

Social housing providers are often at the forefront of large-scale development projects. These projects present a golden opportunity to create jobs and apprenticeships for young people. By working with contractors and developers, housing associations can ensure that a percentage of roles on these sites are reserved for local young people.

Initiatives like local employment clauses in contracts can make a significant impact. Additionally, housing providers can collaborate with organisations like Registered Social Landlords (RSLs) to maximise the reach of these initiatives.

Creating Supportive Environments

Beyond employment and training, social housing providers can create environments that foster young people’s aspirations. This includes:

• Mentoring and Coaching: Partnering with organisations like Coaching Futures can provide young people with the guidance and confidence they need to succeed.
• Community Spaces: Transforming underutilised spaces into youth hubs where young people can access resources, attend workshops, and connect with peers.
• Mental Health Support: Collaborating with care providers to offer mental health services tailored to young people’s needs.

Case Study: A Model for Success

One housing association in the Midlands has set a benchmark by launching a youth employment initiative that combines apprenticeships, training, and mentoring. Over the past two years, the programme has helped over 50 young people secure permanent roles within the organisation or its partner companies. This success story demonstrates the transformative potential of targeted interventions.

The Bigger Picture: Collaboration is Key

Addressing youth unemployment requires a collaborative approach. Social housing providers can work with local authorities, businesses, and charities to create a cohesive strategy. For example, partnerships with Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) can help align housing initiatives with broader government employment schemes.

Additionally, leveraging platforms like Social Home’s resources can provide housing professionals with the tools and insights needed to implement effective programmes.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

The social housing sector has the power to change the trajectory of a million young lives. By prioritising youth employment, investing in training, and fostering supportive communities, housing providers can make a lasting impact. The time to act is now.

Ready to transform your housing management and make a difference in your community? Sign up for Social Home today and join a network of professionals committed to creating brighter futures for young people.