Helen Whately, the shadow work and pensions secretary, stated that minor mental health conditions should not prevent young people from seeking employment during a speech at the Conservative Party conference in Birmingham. She expressed concern that students are being advised to claim benefits immediately after graduating from university, suggesting that this has become a 'lifestyle choice.'
Whately emphasized the Conservative Party's focus on welfare reform, aiming to differentiate their approach from Labour's policies. She noted that historically, about 10 percent of young people were not in work, but this has shifted as more individuals cite health issues as barriers to employment.
While acknowledging the challenges faced by young people, particularly those affected by the Covid pandemic, Whately asserted that these challenges should not excuse a lack of employment. She indicated that if the Conservatives regain power, they would not accept individuals remaining at home without work.
Whately highlighted the issue of young people transitioning from education directly to benefits, stating that this can hinder their productivity in the workforce. She mentioned that some students are being encouraged to prepare to sign on for benefits, which she believes is not an ideal start to their careers.
Research from the Centre for Social Justice (CSJ) revealed that over 700,000 university graduates are currently out of work and receiving welfare benefits, an increase of more than 200,000 since 2019. The report indicated that 400,000 of these individuals are claiming Universal Credit, with nearly 240,000 citing sickness as the reason for their unemployment.
Under proposed Conservative reforms, school leavers would be prohibited from immediately claiming Universal Credit and would instead receive intensive work coaching, which may involve daily job centre attendance and interview preparation. Those who do not secure employment within six months would be placed on a new Subsistence Allowance, which would pay 70 percent of the basic Universal Credit rate, with restrictions on spending.
Whately warned that young individuals who fail to attend job centre sessions would not receive benefits under a Conservative government, stating that attendance would be mandatory. She concluded by emphasizing the need for a welfare system that is fair to taxpayers and ensures that work is always incentivized.