A commitment to all our young

Sir, - We were delighted to note both the Scottish Liberal Democrats and SNP focus on increasing the skill levels of our young people (March 29) and are sure the other parties will follow suit.

What there is a need to increase the training and employment opportunities available to those with additional support needs (ASN) and care experience, so no one in our society is left behind.

Those with ASN and care experience endure some of the poorest educational and employment outcomes of any group of young people, and if we are to deliver a stronger economy and sustainable economic growth it is vital that we support all our young people into training and employment.

Greater and earlier support is required, so that they make a successful transition into employment and training, and colleges and training providers also require greater financial support, reflecting the cost of providing additional support to those with ASN and care experience.

Figures also indicate that just 0.41% of modern apprenticeship starts in 2014-15 had a selfdeclared disability, compared with 8.6% of the population in work aged 16-24 who have a disability – and this is something we must clearly do better at.

It is also vital that greater assistance is provided to an employer who takes on a young person, as they make such a vital difference.

The rewards of getting these young people, many of whom boast excellent skills, into work are well worth it, with higher loyalty and retention rates as well as contributing to delivering the highly-skilled workforce we require. Through developing the talents of all our young people we can create a more equal society and welcome a commitment from the political parties to help all our young people. The Scottish Children’s Services Coalition: Tom McGhee, managing director Spark of Genius. Duncan Dunlop, chief executive Who Cares? Scotland. Sophie Pilgrim, director Kindred Scotland. Stuart Jacob, director Falkland House School. Niall Kelly, managing director Young Foundations. Liz May, national coordinator Action for Sick Children Scotland. Gifford.