Employability West Cork in Bandon are meeting more and more young people seeking a career start, both graduates and school leavers. I am writing to request your (continued) partnership in making a difference for some of these young people. In their career experience and journey, through opportunity, guidance, mentoring and support.
In May 2025, the youth unemployment rate in Ireland was 10.9%, according to Statista. Ireland continues to have a youth/talent flight that sees our young people emigrate for opportunities. As evidence makes clear, your involvement is not just “nice to have”—it’s decisive. By engaging as career advisors outside of schools, you transform lives and build tomorrow’s workforce.
Out of School Guidance
According to the OECD, young people who lack meaningful career guidance and employer interaction during their teens face significantly worse employment outcomes by age 25—lower wages, fewer job opportunities, and higher rates of unemployment.
Teenage Career Readiness | OECD
Yet many of these young people are now out of school and off the radar, with limited access to guidance, networks, or work experience. You don’t need to fix the entire system. But your business can be the turning point in someone’s life.
Why This Matters for Everyone
How we can make a difference
Partner with Employability West Cork, maybe sign up to the Employment and Youth Engagement Charter , and be a host, a mentor and a guide for young people starting their career journey. I can come to you, we can have a coffee … whatever works for you to speak about supports or candidates.
Thank you for all the support you give our clients and I look forward to conversations about even more career starts.