Despite the demoralising findings of a new report on youth unemployment, Ipswich recruitment consultancy Sanctuary Personnel is continuing to improve the morale of young people in our region with its modern apprenticeship academy.

The study, which was carried out by the Work Foundation, looked at youth unemployment internationally. It showed the UK has experienced the fastest rise in youth unemployment of any country in the G8 since the start of the recession.

James Rook, managing director of Sanctuary Personnel, explains the difficulties young people face. He said: “Getting experience has become a very big obstacle for young people, particularly at a time when they are up against experienced candidates who have been made redundant. Although, we cannot blame the recession entirely for this; it has been an ongoing issue for a number of years.

“I remember when I was first looking for a job, I was constantly turned away and told I needed to get some experience. It is very difficult to get experience if employers don’t give you a chance in the first place, particularly if, like me, you are dyslexic and had not achieved the greatest academic grades.”

Sanctuary Personnel, which is the largest provider of social workers in the UK, has employed more modern apprentices than any other employer in East Anglia.

On-the-job training through apprenticeships has proved to be a way forward for young people, greatly encouraged by the coalition government.

With apprenticeships increasing in demand, this year’s National Apprenticeship Week, taking place from March 11-15, is on track to be the biggest to date.

Sanctuary Personnel which is based in Ipswich Waterfront, employs more than 90 people.

For more information on Sanctuary Personnel and its modern apprenticeship academy, visit www.sanctuarypersonnel.com or call 0800 046 1166. To apply, email your CV to hr@sanctuarypersonnel.com