Burdened but Generous: Younger Members of the Workforce

But one need not be the world’s wisest wizard to value the importance of young people’s convictions and efforts.

To know what young people about the economy is easy enough.  If you ask any of them looking for a job, he or she is sure to give you an earful about the government and banks.  Then they are likely to claim that they remain optimistic about their own potential to find success in a job that they like.

Recruiters may be interested in getting a read on the opinions of younger members of the workforce.

In a press release published by Demos, an independent think tank based in Great Britain, just 7 percent of 16-24 year olds feel that Government makes decisions with their age group (11-20 years old) in mind.  They feel their age group will bear the brunt of the spending cuts, with 32 percent of 18-21 year olds thinking that 16-24 year olds would be the age group worst affected by the spending review and 28 percent thinking those slightly older aged 25-34 would have to feel the biggest impact.

Although this age group consider themselves to be the worst affected by economic downturns, they prioritize the well-being of older age groups over their own immediate prosperity.  They think Old Age Pensioners should be protected from Government spending cuts and favor cuts to education rather than health (43 per cent compared to 28 percent).

Polling and focus groups held by Demos and The Co-operative expose a complex understanding of the financial challenges facing Britain but also a mistrust of politicians and an optimistic and altruistic attitude on the part of the nation’s young people.