For decades, many parents in the UK have encouraged their children to follow a familiar path: &nbsp;work hard at school → get into university → secure a stable, well-paid graduate job.But the reality facing today’s young people looks very different.A recent analysis by the Centre for Social Justice paints a sobering picture: more than 700,000 university graduates are currently out of work and claiming benefits. That’s a 46% increase since 2019.Of these:<ul><li>400,000 graduates are claiming Universal Credit,&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>240,000 say they cannot work due to health reasons, a figure that has more than doubled since before the pandemic.</li></ul>These aren’t small numbers. They represent a major shift in the labour market and a wake‑up call for parents, educators, and policymakers.At the same time, the government has launched new initiatives to get young people into work by subsidising wages for roles in takeaways, gyms, supermarkets and other entry‑level sectors. The intention is clear: reduce unemployment, get people into routine work, and build confidence and experience.But this raises an uncomfortable question for many families:If graduates are now being funnelled into jobs that don’t require degrees, what does this mean for the future of higher education and for our children’s career choices?The World of Work Has Changed, and So Must Our ThinkingSeveral forces are reshaping the job market:1. Automation and AITasks once done by junior staff; data entry, admin, basic analysis, etc are increasingly automated. This reduces the number of entry-level roles traditionally filled by graduates.2. Offshoring and global outsourcingCompanies can now hire skilled workers abroad at a fraction of the cost. This particularly affects sectors like IT, finance, customer service, and design.3. Rising employment costsWith higher minimum wage levels and Employer NIC contributions, many businesses are cautious about hiring inexperienced graduates who require training.4. A renewed push for vocational and trade careersElectricians, plumbers, builders, mechanics, decorators, and other skilled trades are in high demand and often earn more than many graduate roles.Parents who grew up believing trades were “second best” may need to rethink that narrative.The New Question: What Pathway Actually Leads to Stability?Instead of asking: “Which university should my child go to?”We may need to start asking: “Which career path gives my child the best chance of financial independence, well-being, and long‑term stability?”For some young people, university will still be the right choice.&nbsp;&nbsp;But for many others, apprenticeships, vocational training, or learning a trade may offer:<ol><li>Faster entry into paid work.</li><li>Lower or no debt.</li><li>Strong earning potential.</li><li>Long‑term job security.</li><li>Opportunities to start a business.</li></ol>And importantly, dignity and pride in meaningful work.We Need to Remove the Shame Around Non‑Graduate CareersThe idea that success only comes through a degree is outdated and harmful. The UK economy is signalling loud and clear that skilled hands-on work is valuable, respected, and in demand. Parents play a huge role in shaping how young people see themselves.&nbsp; If we cling to old definitions of success, we risk pushing our children into debt, disappointment, and unnecessary pressure.This is the moment to broaden the conversation.So What Can Families Do Right Now?<ul><li>Talk openly about the realities of the job market.</li><li>Explore apprenticeships and vocational pathways early.</li><li>Encourage young people to develop practical, income-generating skills.</li><li>Focus on strengths, not status.</li><li>Teach financial literacy so young adults can make informed choices.</li></ul>And above all, remove the stigma! A child who becomes a skilled tradesperson is not “less successful” than one who becomes a lawyer. They are simply taking a different route to independence.As a financial well-being coach, I work with individuals who are trying to make sense of the changing economic landscape. If you’d like support in navigating these conversations, or you want to help your young person build strong financial foundations, you’re welcome to connect with me<a target="_blank" href="https://linktr.ee/SalomeRu"> here</a>.The world is changing and our approach to careers and money must evolve with it.&nbsp; With the right guidance, our young people can still thrive, just not always in the ways we once imagined.&nbsp;Contact: hello@salomeru.com

New data shows 700,000+ UK graduates are out of work and claiming benefits.

Traditional Degrees ...What Parents & Young People Now Know About the UK’s Changing Career Landscape

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Traditional Degrees ...What Parents & Young People Now Know About the UK’s Changing Career Landscape

Traditional Degrees ...What Parents & Young People Now Know About the UK’s Changing Career Landscape

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