Youth Jobs Gap Widens in Suffolk as Employers Say Too Many Young People Are Not Work Ready

New analysis of Local Skills Improvement Plans (LSIPs), published today by the British Chambers of Commerce, has found that too many young people are still entering the labour market without the skills, confidence or behaviours employers need.

The report comes as the number of young people classed as not in employment, education or training (NEET) has risen to 957,000, its highest point since the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis, with 12.8% of 16–24 year olds now locked out of work and learning¹. This is a challenge reflected across Suffolk.

The report shows that LSIPs have successfully brought together thousands of employers, education providers and stakeholders to better align training with the needs of local economies. However, it also identifies missed opportunities, particularly in engaging younger people earlier and creating clearer pathways into employment.

Across Suffolk, employers are reporting the same pattern reflected nationally. Businesses say too many young people are entering the labour market without the behaviours, confidence and practical skills needed to succeed, particularly around communication, resilience and workplace expectations.

Evidence gathered through the Norfolk and Suffolk LSIP shows these gaps often emerge before young people leave education, reinforcing the need for earlier, employer‑informed engagement in schools and colleges. 

Key findings from employer engagement through the Norfolk and Suffolk LSIP include:

• Work readiness now a “very high concern” for employers across multiple sectors
• Gaps in communication and behaviours evident before young people leave education
• ‘Digitally confident’ does not always mean ‘workplace ready’, employers warn
• Rural transport barriers limiting access to jobs and training
• Employers willing to help, but the skills system not set up to connect them with schools early enough

Digital capability is also an increasing concern. While many young people are confident using technology, employers highlight a gap in practical, workplace‑ready digital skills. Around 30% of businesses² now view AI awareness as a desirable capability, underlining how quickly workplace expectations are evolving.

In rural areas of Suffolk, these challenges are often compounded by transport and connectivity barriers, which can restrict access to jobs, training and work experience. Employers in sectors such as engineering, agri‑tech and clean energy report that talent is being lost due to access issues rather than ability.

Despite these challenges, there is clear local progress. Through the LSIP and Local Skills Improvement Fund investment, colleges and training providers across Norfolk and Suffolk have introduced new courses, facilities and employer‑designed programmes aligned to key sectors including clean energy, advanced manufacturing, construction and digital.

Employers are increasingly involved in shaping provision, helping ensure training reflects real‑world needs and that learners are better prepared for the workplace.

The national BCC report highlights that the skills system continues to be held back by fragmented funding, limited influence in earlier education and inconsistent engagement with young people before they enter the labour market.

Dean Pierpoint, Skills Director for the Norfolk and Suffolk LSIP, said: “The national picture is playing out here in Norfolk and Suffolk. Too many young people are still leaving education without a clear route into work, and employers are feeling that gap.

“We are seeing clear progress through the Norfolk and Suffolk LSIP, with stronger collaboration between employers and education and more provision aligned to local industry needs. But there is more to do, particularly in supporting younger people earlier and making pathways into work much clearer and more accessible”.

Kate Shoesmith, Director of Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “LSIPs have been really successful, involving thousands of businesses, training providers and learners over the past four years to deliver strong employment outcomes.

“But they are being held back from achieving more. There is an urgent need to improve the quality and consistency of careers advice available to schools. Many LSIPs report that schools are not aware of the growth areas in their local economies or the breadth of careers available.

“With almost one million young people not in employment, education or training, earlier intervention is essential to connect young people to the world of work. The tools to do this already exist through LSIPs. It is now a matter of giving them the long-term support and authority to deliver at scale.”

The Norfolk and Suffolk LSIP continues to work with businesses, education providers and partners to strengthen skills provision, improve progression pathways and support economic growth across the region.

For more information about the Norfolk and Suffolk LSIP, please visit www.nslsip.co.uk