Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, with reference to the Office for National Statistics' dataset entitled CC02 Regional labour market, published on 12 August 2025, what steps she is taking to support young people into work in Eastleigh constituency.

The Department is committed to ensuring young people have access to the support they need to move into sustainable employment. DWP currently provides young people aged 16-24 with labour market support through an extensive range of interventions at a national and local level. This includes flexible provision driven by local need, nationwide employment programmes and support delivered by work coaches based in our Jobcentres and in local communities, working alongside partners such as the Kings Trust, Local Authorities, National Careers Service/Career Wales, local colleges and Youth Trusts.

Local Youth Employment Coaches in Eastleigh are providing tailored, intensive support through extended appointments and a range of targeted opportunities including:

• Sector-Based Work Academy Programmes (SWAPs): delivered in partnership with three local colleges, offering training and work experience across key sectors including construction, hospitality, retail, and health and social care.

• The Movement to Work Programme: recently supported young people through a two-week course focused on overcoming employment barriers – such as access to clothing and IT –and improving job readiness. Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive and of the 10 attendees, 2 young people have already secured employment with another 4 awaiting interview outcomes.

• Sessions focused on the benefits of work experience and shifting mindsets: Employment Advisors in Eastleigh have developed sessions highlighting the benefits of work experience and shifting attitudes towards employment. These are delivered in collaboration with charities and employers, offering work experience placements that build skills and enhance CVs.

We have also set up job matching support to assist young people with their job applications and securing suitable roles. In addition, we are providing outreach services in Romsey, while not exclusively aimed at young people, these services help overcome transport barriers in a region with a predominantly younger demographic.