15 July 2026
Senedd report on young people’s position in the Welsh labour market
Senedd Research has published A generational challenge: young people and the labour market; a new briefing examining how young people in Wales are faring in education, training and employment. The analysis highlights that young people have been disproportionately affected by recent economic shocks and now face a more complex and competitive labour market than previous generations.
The report identifies persistent inequalities, with young people experiencing higher rates of unemployment and economic inactivity than the UK average. It also notes that disabled young people, young carers and those from lower‑income households face additional barriers to accessing good‑quality work, while regional differences in transport, job availability and skills provision continue to shape opportunities.
The briefing emphasises that job quality is a growing concern, with many young people encountering insecure work, low pay and limited progression. It also highlights the importance of supporting young people into growth sectors linked to Wales’s economic transition, including green industries, digital roles, advanced manufacturing and the care economy.
The analysis provides timely context for ongoing policy discussions around youth employability, fair work and long‑term labour‑market outcomes in Wales, and highlights the need for clear progression pathways and accessible support for young people across all communities.
Read A generational challenge: young people and the labour market on the Senedd Research website.
The report identifies persistent inequalities, with young people experiencing higher rates of unemployment and economic inactivity than the UK average. It also notes that disabled young people, young carers and those from lower‑income households face additional barriers to accessing good‑quality work, while regional differences in transport, job availability and skills provision continue to shape opportunities.
The briefing emphasises that job quality is a growing concern, with many young people encountering insecure work, low pay and limited progression. It also highlights the importance of supporting young people into growth sectors linked to Wales’s economic transition, including green industries, digital roles, advanced manufacturing and the care economy.
The analysis provides timely context for ongoing policy discussions around youth employability, fair work and long‑term labour‑market outcomes in Wales, and highlights the need for clear progression pathways and accessible support for young people across all communities.
Read A generational challenge: young people and the labour market on the Senedd Research website.
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