THE Scottish Government has been accused of “papering over the cracks” with the launch of a new national hotline for teenagers seeking a place in training or further education.
Youth employment minister Angela Constance unveiled the Opportunities for All line yesterday, which will allow those between the ages of 16 and 19 to speak directly with advisers in their local area.
But Labour’s education spokesman, Hugh Henry, said the initiative was “too little to late”, following reports that thousands of young people are still waiting to secure a college place for this year.
Mr Henry said: “Although we welcome this measure, it is frankly too little too late. The Scottish Government are just papering over the cracks in the poor planning and deep cuts to college budgets that have led to at least 10,000 young Scots being turned away from colleges at a time when youth unemployment is at an all-time high.”
Ms Constance said: “The Scottish Government has made a unique and explicit commitment to offer every 16- to 19-year-old a place in education or training through Opportunities for All. Thousands of young people are taking up such places every month, developing their skills and experience and improving their chances of finding employment.
“We are determined that all our young people have a dedicated contact point where they can get advice on the place in education or training that is right for them.”
The phone number for the service is: 0800 917 8000.