NEW research has found that half of employers in Scotland are reporting skills shortages, while only one in three have recruitment or training initiatives aimed at those under 25.
Research by The Open University also found 42% of employers have hired fewer people over the past year, compared with just 26% who have increased recruitment.
At the same time, the research points to an opportunity for employers seeking to strengthen their workforce, with eight in ten 16-to-24-year-olds not in education, employment or training saying they would remain loyal to an employer that invested in training beyond the requirements of their immediate role.
The Open University in Scotland says the findings demonstrate the need for stronger collaboration between employers and educators to tackle skills shortages while creating more opportunities for young people to enter and progress within the workforce.
Jane Grant, depute director of external engagement and partnerships at The Open University in Scotland, said, “The Open University’s annual Business Barometer has charted the UK’s skills landscape since 2017 and we have seen that landscape evolve year after year. Despite rising economic pressures and changing labour market demands, skills shortages remain a stubborn challenge for employers across Scotland and the wider UK.
“It is vital that we work together to build the future talent pipelines employers need. Young people are the nurses, teachers, engineers, social workers and digital specialists of tomorrow, and we must ensure they have access to flexible and accessible routes into those careers. If we are serious about economic growth, we must be equally serious about creating opportunity and giving young people the knowledge, skills and support they need to convert that opportunity into value for themselves, their communities and Scotland’s economy.”
The Open University in Scotland believes flexible learning pathways can play an important role in helping organisations develop talent while supporting individuals to gain qualifications and workplace experience.
Jane added, “As workforce needs continue to evolve, developing accessible routes into employment and lifelong learning will become increasingly important for employers seeking to remain competitive. Therefore stronger partnerships between employers and education providers will be vital if Scotland is to address long-term skills shortages and create sustainable opportunities for young people.”
The Business Barometer research was conducted by Opinium Research and surveyed 1,500 senior decision-makers responsible for recruitment across UK organisations, alongside 1,000 young people aged 16-24 who were not in education, employment or training.
The findings were analysed across all four nations of the UK, providing insight into the specific challenges and opportunities facing employers and young people in Scotland.
