For young people in Slough, finding a first job can feel like navigating a maze. On the surface, the town’s jobs market looks strong, with about 80.7% of working-age residents in employment, higher than the South East average. However, for 18 to 24-year-olds, the picture is more challenging. Local data suggests that in 2025, around 7.3% of young people in this age group were unemployed, a rate higher than in many neighbouring areas. Nationally, youth unemployment remains a concern, with up to 16% of 16 to 24-year-olds out of work.
So why is it still hard for Slough’s young people to step into work? Well, employers often look for experience that school leavers have not yet had the opportunity to gain. Transport costs, confidence gaps, and limited awareness of local support can make the journey even more difficult. Many young people simply do not know where to turn for practical help with CVs, interviews, or career planning.
Thankfully, initiatives are emerging across Slough to tackle these barriers and support young people into employment.
Viva Slough works directly with young people through initiatives such as #DRIVE and Digital Careers to improve employability. This includes one to one mentoring, CV writing sessions, mock interviews, volunteering placements, and employer led workshops that help young people build the skills and experience employers are looking for.
Step Together Slough and Youth Engagement Slough support young people who may be furthest from employment by offering personalised guidance, confidence-building sessions, and practical pathways into training, apprenticeships, or work. These programmes also help young people develop essential skills such as communication, teamwork, leadership, and self-belief, all of which are vital for success in the workplace.
Community events also play an important role in engagement. Together As One’s Global Grub brings people together through culture and food while offering young people meaningful opportunities to volunteer, support event delivery, connect with local organisations, and develop transferable skills such as organisation, customer interaction, and time management in a relaxed and inclusive environment.
Alongside apprenticeships, careers hubs, and council-supported services, these initiatives show that opportunity in Slough goes beyond traditional routes. With the right guidance and local support, young people can turn potential into progress.
The message is clear: Slough’s young people are not alone. Through strong partnerships, practical programmes, and community-led events, the town is creating opportunities that help young people gain confidence, experience, and a real pathway into work.
