Nottingham’s NEET

Just last week it was reported in the Nottingham Evening Post that Ralph Surman, national executive member of the Association of Teacher and Lecturers, has said Nottingham has a significant number of what he refers to as ‘Uber Chavs’.

Mr. Surman categorises these ‘Uber Chavs’ as young people brought up by single mums in the 1980s, who have no work ethic, social skills and are classified as NEET (Not in Education, Employment and Training)

What may come to a surprise to many, certainly to those that concur with Mr Surman's comments, is that Nottingham appears more successful at encouraging young people into education, employment and training than comparable cities.  Indeed, figures from Connexions Nottinghamshire, which works to reduce the number of NEET young people in Notts and encourage aspirations among young people, state that young people aged 16-19 classified as NEET currently stands at 5.5 per cent, compared with a national average of around 7 per cent and a locally set target of 5.8 per cent.

At Connexions, we certainly believe that there is a lot of young potential in Nottinghamshire and we endeavour to help and inspire young people to get the best possible start in life.  Some young people may need more time and support than others to reach their potential and we are committed to helping these young people progress.

Bearing this in mind, as students from Castle College agree (NEP Wednesday, February 11, 2009), the term 'Uber Chav’ is unhelpful, demeaning and not representative of Nottingham’s teenagers.

So which side of the fence do you come down on? What’s your experience of young people who have worked with you or come along for an interview? What about the area in which you live?  Do you think Mr Surman is right to speak out and have you experienced one of his ‘Uber Chavs’?  Or do you have a very positive experience of the young people you meet? Tell us what you think.....

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