Yep. We have always employed young people, especially students who work mainly in their holidays, which ties in nicely with our business fluctuations. For every 5 18 year olds we take on, I estimate 1 will become a real asset, the remaining 4 will do the job adequately enough, which was fine at, what was traditionally, roughly half the cost of an experienced 25+ employee. Now that there is so little difference in cost (unfortunately the business can’t stretch to paying £20+ an hour for experienced staff, which is really what they should be on if the 18 year olds are worth £10 an hour) so we have reduced the hours we are open and manage with mainly our permanent, older and experienced, team.
This pattern is being carried out by hospitality businesses all over the country. The result is very few opportunities for young workers; disgruntled customers who moan about venues only being open half the week with worse service; and less tax income for the Government. Slow hand clap for Labour.
The daft thing is, most of the 18 year olds were very happy with their £6 an hour pocket money. None of the 30 odd teenagers we’ve employed in the last few years lived independently, or wished too. They used the money for treats and/or uni savings. It
really is great experience for them too. One of the most rewarding things to experience as an employer is to see a nervous, shy 18 year old blossom into a capable, confident young person, all because they were able to take pride in doing their job well.
it makes me so angry that this was the completely predictable result. And now Kier Starmer is mumbling about creating schemes to put young people in work experience in hospitality. Yes, you idiot, that’s essentially what paying 18 year olds a lower wage meant happened naturally.
Sorry for the rant!