Employment is becoming a growing concern for youth and younger Canadians. This infographic is based on findings from the recent New Deal for Young People report by the Broadbent Institute. The Broadbent Institute carried out an extensive poll with 983 Millennials (aged 20-30) and 1,064 Boomers (aged 50-60) with at least one child. The reason that these two groups were chosen is that they make up the two largest population groups in Canada, representing 24% and 29% respectively.
- 52% of Millennials think that they will work on contract, compared to 14% of Boomers.
- 60% of Millennials feel that the gap between the rich and poor will continue to grow.
- 49% of Boomers think that their children have worse opportunities than they had.
There is also a large distrust of corporations to provide the jobs, security and benefits necessary to provide economic improvements over the previous generations.
It is hard to feel positive about the employment situation. In January of 2014, there were an estimated 540,000 unemployed youth (aged 15-29), while 390,000 young workers left the labour force between October 2008 and January 2014. This latest recession has been particularly hard on young workers.
At the Homeless Hub, I have consistently thought about the impact of these larger patterns on populations that are currently experiencing homelessness, or who have experienced homelessness.
While these patterns of unemployment and insecure jobs are clear throughout Canadian society, those with less education attainment and those who lack job experience find it even more difficult to get good jobs. Unfortunately, youth who have experienced homelessness frequently have less education attainment and job experience.
Returning home has been a growing trend for young people throughout Canada. Those who aren’t able to return home will be faced with a greater risk of experiencing homelessness. This can apply to youth who have previously experienced homelessness, but can also be the result of prolonged periods of unemployment.
It is time that Boomers join in supporting young people, youth and Millennials. The younger generation needs at least some of the security and benefits that were fought for in the days past. This means supporting job creation for everyone, not just those with university degrees or extensive work experience.
