5 facts about disadvantaged young people

The last days of high school can be a time of high excitement for young people. But for disadvantaged young people the choices after school are often limited and difficult to make. Here are some facts you might not have known about young people from disadvantaged backgrounds:

1. Multiple disadvantages. According to the Youth Action & Policy Association, 1 in 10 young people are experiencing multiple forms of disadvantage, including social and economic exclusion as well as mental health issues and lower levels of education.

2. Higher unemployment. In 2007, 28% of Australian teenagers aged 15-19 or half a million young people left school with no transition into full time work, study or both. Some are fine with this and see it all as part of a plan. But for others, it's the pattern for the rest of their life.
Lack of employment is the greatest predictor of poverty in Australia, and a major contributor to mental, physical and societal problems, including depression, substance abuse and crime. With the unemployment rate for 15-19 year olds at 26% in July, social workers fear a generation of disadvantaged young people will be far worse off this economic season.

3. Financially disadvantaged homes. In a report by The Smith Family, growing up in a financially disadvantaged home is linked with lower school readiness and poorer academic performance in later years. As outlined in the government's 'Social Inclusion' paper, without vital educational assistance and support, the cycle of disadvantage will simply continue into the next generation.

4. Disadvantage is not inevitable. While a disadvantaged young person has grown up with a lack of opportunities and resource, this doesn't have to be the story of their adult lives. Through comprehensive programs and scholarships, organisations like The Smith Family can help provide disadvantaged young people with educational support, employment skills and confidence to negotiate this vital stage of life.