RECRUITMENT INDUSTRY ANNOUNCES UNIQUE COMMITMENT TO OPEN MORE PATHWAYS TO MEANINGFUL EMPLOYMENT FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

Queenstown, 28 August 2014

An industry-first initiative has been announced by the Recruitment and Consulting Services Association at its annual conference in Queenstown today.
While New Zealand’s overall unemployment statistics continue to decline, youth unemployment remains a significant concern. Overall unemployment has dipped well below six per cent of those available for work, but in the 15-19 year age group the figure is now just over 20 per cent.
The RCSA has announced a new initiative that works with Association members to take an active role in working directly with youth to open pathways to meaningful employment.
The RCSA Youth Jobs Charter calls for members to pledge time and resources to initiatives that work directly with young people – collaborating with employers or secondary schools and employment service providers will enable RCSA members to help turn the country’s youth unemployment statistics around.
Speaking at the RCSA conference welcome last night in Queenstown, Minister for Social Development Paula Bennett noted that an initiative such as the Youth Jobs Charter, driven by the experts, pooling resources and knowledge with the concerted commitment to help young people get into work – “that’s fantastic”.
During its conference, the RCSA aims to confirm pledges from its member recruitment agencies to work directly with 5000 youth in Australia and New Zealand over the coming 12 months.
RCSA New Zealand Region Council Chair Paul Robinson said while the causes of youth unemployment were many, the industry had a unique opportunity to intervene and provide a positive influence and direct action in the market.
“Urgent action is required at all levels to address this issue, and we are keen to play our part. Overall, Government, business and educators must work together to give our young people the skills and attitude they need to succeed in job recruitment and their first work roles,” he said.
It is the first time the recruitment industry – or any other large industry group – has taken such action in this country. Mr Robinson said bold reform and collaboration is required if positive change is to occur.
“As an industry, we have taken the initiative by asking members to sign the youth jobs charter and we encourage all recruiting companies – whether RCSA members or not – to do likewise.”