The pledge asks employers to commit to:

• preparing young people for the world of work through engaging with education, work experience and work-based learning opportunities
• engaging with and providing opportunities to young people who face barriers to work
• creating apprenticeships, training and upskilling opportunities for young people
• creating jobs and opportunities for young people
• creating an inclusive workplace to enable young people to meet their potential.

The Guarantee aims to give all young people the chance to succeed despite the economic impacts of COVID-19, while also ensuring employers continue to benefit from the fresh talent and new perspectives that young people bring to workplaces across Scotland.

Economy secretary Fiona Hyslop said: “I want to thank all the employers who have backed our ambitious initiative so far and recognise the importance of supporting our young people. The leadership of employers from across Scotland and from all sectors will be key in providing the opportunities that will make this a success. 

“The pandemic is having a disproportionate economic effect on our young people, reducing job opportunities just as they are starting out on their careers. On top of our existing investments in employment, education and skills, in November we provided an additional £60 million for our Young Person’s Guarantee to ensure everyone aged 16 to 24 has the opportunity of work, education or training. Recognising the ongoing impact of the pandemic, we have committed a further £70m to expand these opportunities and I will set out detail of how this funding will be allocated shortly.

“We continue to encourage employers to come forward and join what is a crucial intervention to ensure that we capture the potential of our young people and prevent COVID-19 leaving a lasting impact on the employment opportunities of our future workforce.”

Sandy Begbie, chair of the Young Person’s Guarantee Implementation Group, said: “The Young Person’s Guarantee is relatively simple, it’s about connecting young people with opportunities whether they are in employment, training or education.

“I have long believed young people are an enormous asset to employers, I have never regretted once the recruitment of a young person. The value they bring into companies is considerable, it is one of the best investments you can make. I would therefore encourage all employers, regardless of size or sector, to commit to the Guarantee and give all our young people the opportunity they deserve.”

Employers can find out more about supporting the YPG here.