Merthyr's young bearing the brunt of UK recession

7.33.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 3rd Jun 2009

More needs to be done to help Merthyr's young jobless

Councillor Bob Griffin, Merthyr Lib Dem Economic Development spokesperson, has commented on the news that one in six young people in Merthyr are claiming Jobseeker's Allowance

Research, carried out by The Joseph Rowntree Foundation, has shown that around half of the unemployed people in Wales are under 25.

Bob Griffin said, "The most significant aspect of the current recession is the high level of unemployment among young adults. If this continues, we risk a new generation that lacks the experience, qualifications and self-belief to provide for themselves and their families. This isn't good for them and it isn't good for Merthyr."

Compared to many other parts of the UK, the post-1997 economic recovery in south Wales was slower to kick in and markedly weaker, leaving it particularly sensitive to any downturn.

To make matters worse The Prince's Trust warns that local charities set up to help disadvantaged young people are facing an upward spiral in demand just as the economic climate threatens funding.

Parliamentary candidate, Amy Kitcher added, "This is the legacy of 10 years of a Labour government. They have made promise after promise on slashing poverty but the situation is worse than ever. Our most vulnerable young people could be be permanently damaged by this downturn if the Government doesn't do more to help."