12/11/2009AGR responds to latest youth unemployment figures

MEDIA STATEMENT
For immediate release: Wednesday 11 November 2009



Carl Gilleard, Chief Executive of the Association of Graduate Recruiters, said: “Today’s unemployment figures are a major disappointment. We know that there are far fewer graduate vacancies this year and that the situation for graduates is tough. However, it is crucial recent graduates do not lose heart and use any time without employment productively. We know employers continue to place real value on a university degree.

“It is still too early to say whether we are likely to see an improvement in 2010 but there is optimism amongst graduate recruiters that the situation should start to ease somewhat. We saw one in four graduate vacancies disappear this year and it will take time before 2008 levels are restored.

“AGR is supporting the Government’s Backing Young Britain campaign which is calling on all employers to reaffirm their commitment to giving young people new employment opportunities.”

[ENDS]

For further information please contact Anya Matthews or Henry de Rougemont at Colman Getty 020 7631 2666 amy@colmangetty.co.uk / henry@colmangetty.co.uk

Notes to editors

• Carl Gilleard, Chief Executive of AGR, may be available for interview. Contact Colman Getty
• The AGR is the recognised national voice for all UK employers involved in graduate recruitment. The AGR has over 800 members from both the public and private sectors. To find out more about AGR membership, visit www.agr.org.uk or call 01926 623236
• Press copies of AGR’s summer survey are available on request from Colman Getty. The full report is available free to AGR members and is available to non-members priced £200, visit www.agr.org.uk for further details