Demand for non-skilled labour has dropped significantly as the global marketplace increases competition for jobs, it has been suggested.
Matthew Freeman, head of young people at employment specialist Working Links, believes technological advances now mean that UK candidates do not just face competition for vacancies from people at home, but also applicants in emerging economies like Brazil, China and Argentina.
"We must therefore ensure that all young people can gain valuable employment skills, good references and training so they can meet the demands of employers and go on to have successful and rewarding careers," he said.
Furthermore, Mr Freeman thinks jobs or training can provide young people hope and a sense of self-worth, meaning they are less of a burden to society.
His comments come as a study by the Audit Commission found that around 25 per cent of teenagers are not in education, employment or training at some point during the two years after they reach 16 and have poorer life chances making them more likely to be a long-term cost to the public purse.
By Cameron Thomson