Why Workfare’s “One Size Fits All” Approach is Unhelpful to Young People’s Aspirations

The workfare programme has been highly controversial. At school, teachers often emphasized that without hard work and good grades, we’d end up in jobs like “stacking shelves” or “flipping burgers.” Yet, with the latest Workfare Scheme, this seems to have become an accepted path to full-time employment.

While I am not entirely against the government’s scheme—since job experience is crucial—I am concerned about its disregard for young people’s career interests and passions. After graduating from university last summer, I struggled to find a job despite having work experience. Eventually, I found a voluntary internship in my field of interest. Though not everyone can afford to work for free, it was my best option while claiming JSA.

The difference between my voluntary internship and the current workfare scheme is significant. I enjoyed my role, making it easy to get up every morning. The societal stigma attached to roles offered by the scheme discourages young participation.

Instead of providing mediocre work placements, the government should focus on equipping young people with the skills and confidence to seek opportunities aligned with their passions. Encouraging voluntary work experience in fields of genuine interest fosters employment skills and civic engagement.

In today’s competitive job market, proving your worth can lead to employment. Fair opportunity or exploitation? Share your thoughts on the government’s scheme and its impact.

Explore more about volunteering and its impact on youth employment in our article Why workfare’s “one size fits all” approach is unhelpful to young peoples’ aspirations.

Read about the benefits of volunteering in Volunteers’ Week 2016 - Is volunteering the answer? and discover how volunteering can address youth unemployment in The unaffordable youth unemployment crisis - and how volunteering can help.