We are calling for policy makers to fund a new Future Jobs scheme that would allow the environmental sector to support young people into environmental conservation, horticulture and other careers.
Why are we asking for this?
We believe that policy makers needs to have a joined-up approach to investment. This is essential in order to address both youth unemployment (or poor employment), and the need to reverse the current climate crisis and recover the UK’s natural environment.
The environmental sector can reach a broad group of young people, breaking down barriers for young people to get their first work experience. As shown by Our Bright Future projects, having working experience in the environmental sector has multiple benefits on young people:
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employability
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engagement with nature
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personal development
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health and wellbeing
Young people also face barriers to employment in the environmental sector due to the level of experience, or formal qualifications required for many of the jobs available.
There is a need for more entry-level positions for young people who are just starting out in the sector; as well as support to help them seek out and access these opportunities.
How can I get involved?
We are currently conducting research to demonstrate the impact that job schemes in the environmental sector have on young people’s lives. As part of this research, we are collecting stories from young people who got a job as a result of having a work experience in the environmental sector. So, If you have got a great story to tell us, please share it with us by sending an email to ourbrightfuture@wildlifetrusts.org
You could also help by asking employers in the environmental sector to reconsider what skills, experience and knowledge are really needed for a role or raising awareness of the opportunities currently available.
Do you know someone who is interested in working in the environmental sector? Or are you a young person looking to start your journey? You can check out some of the useful links below to get started and share them with others who might be interested:
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Our Bright Future opportunities: We share jobs, training, events and conferences being promoted by at least 50 organisations involved in the programme across the UK
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Environment Job: The latest UK based jobs in conservation, wildlife, ecology, sustainability and environmental education jobs
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Countryside Jobs Service: Current vacancies, professional training courses and events
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Green Jobs: A specialist job board that focuses on jobs and careers in the green industry sector, both in the UK and globally
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Charity Job: The only job board created for charity, not for profit, third sector and voluntary jobs
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Change Agents UK: Experts in sustainability recruitment! Supporting young people who wish to use their careers to make a positive difference
