Youth-Evaluated Career Support Programme

The Problem

Young people often face outdated, impersonal, or inaccessible career guidance. Scenes from You’re Fried! highlighted that many were left to navigate unclear job options alone, faced discrimination (e.g. “-ology degrees won’t get you anywhere”), and received only generic lists of websites. Employers may not be prepared or resourced to offer meaningful placements. There is no system in place to listen to or learn from young people’s real experiences.

Policy Proposal:

Develop a shared career support toolkit and accountability system for employers and schools, evaluated by young people themselves, to ensure career guidance is relevant, inclusive, and responsive through cross-sector collaboration.

Amendments:

• Create a comprehensive support system, including a centralised portal for opportunities; accountability mechanisms in place, with regular check-ins between career advisors, parents, and students

• Ensure inclusive design with focus on neurodiversity and disability support, safe workplace environments, and early application options for young people

• Establish clear accountability roles for local councils and improve communication systems between parents, advisors, and employers

Key Actions

1. National Careers Toolkit Co-Designed with Young People

   • A practical, adaptable toolkit for schools and employers that builds on existing initiatives, such Youth Employment UK(External link)

   • Includes:

     • Guidelines on making placements meaningful and inclusive

     • A calendar of sector events (e.g., NHS college takeovers)

     • A pledge template for employers

     • Communication and consent protocols for young people and families

     • Guidance on feedback and check-ins

   • Developed through workshops with young people from diverse backgrounds, including neurodivergent participants.

2. Employer Pledge & Charter with Evaluation Criteria

   • Employers sign a local/regional Careers Charter, pledging to:

     • Offer structured placements with real learning

     • Respect inclusion standards and fair pay practices where relevant

     • Receive and act on feedback

   • Backed by public recognition and shared responsibility with schools and local authorities.

3. Youth-Evaluated Feedback System (“Experience Check-Up”)

   • Every placement ends with an anonymised evaluation from the young participant.

   • Feedback is reviewed annually by local career boards or school authorities, with direct involvement of young people.

   • Data is used to improve practice and share good examples.

4. Accessible & Inclusive by Design

   • Mechanisms to support young people with disabilities or mental health needs (as raised in scenes and comments).

   • Additional training to career advisors on listening empathetically and adapting opportunities.

   • Accessibility must be clear, documented, and evaluated — “What does accessibility mean and who’s responsible?”

5. Cross-Sector Support and Monitoring

   • Employers receive the toolkit through CPD (Continuing Professional Development) events.

   • Combined authorities and councils involved to ensure visibility of local job markets.

   • Funding mechanisms and insurance policy reform supported by government to reduce burdens on small employers.