What young people tell Childline about apprenticeships

For young people taking their first steps in the workplace as an apprentice can be an exciting time, if a little nerve-wracking. And for employers, you’re welcoming your future business stars. 

This National Apprenticeship Week we’re shining a light on what employers need to know about keeping your young apprentices safe in the workplace.

As well as the usual health and safety considerations, employers have a duty of care to keep young people safe. That means making sure you have appropriate safeguarding policies and procedures, and that everyone in your business knows what they need to do if they have a concern.

Young apprentices bring fresh perspectives and bags of enthusiasm and ambition. But this can also be a challenging time for young people.

Starting out can be a tricky time

Last year¹ Childline recorded over 400 counselling sessions that mentioned apprenticeships². Young people talked to us about their worries about getting onto a scheme and concerns about their mental health, family relationships and education.

"I’ve been experiencing anxiety and panic attacks at work. I’m in an apprenticeship at the moment. I don’t work with anyone my own age; all my colleagues are older. My mum is supportive and has talked to my college about how I’ve been struggling."
Boy, 18

There were young people who spoke  about finding it difficult to talk to their manager or colleagues, manage the stress of workloads, taking on more responsibilities than they feel prepared for and not wanting to let anyone down.

Some young people are supported by their parents, who help by keeping in contact with course tutors. But others feel they must navigate the workplace independently, which can be overwhelming.

"I don’t get on with my parents; I’d like to move out and be independent, get a part-time job or an apprenticeship. I’m feeling stressed and overwhelmed about the future."
Girl, 17

Some young people may be experiencing harm outside the workplace or be at heightened risk because of physical or mental health, communication or cognitive difficulties that require additional support from others. Or they may be at particular risk of abuse simply because there is an imbalance of power between them and their employer or colleagues.

How employers can support young people

There are simple steps that employers can take to make the workplace a safe and welcoming environment for young people and ensure any concerns about their safety or wellbeing are identified and acted upon. 
By being aware of and assessing the risks, following appropriate safeguarding policies and procedures, and making sure everyone knows how to keep young people safe, you can help your apprentices feel safe, supported and ready to shine.

NSPCC is here to help

Our bite-sized safeguarding apprentices masterclass covers what you need to know to help keep young people safe. In one hour you’ll learn:

• what safeguarding means in the workplace and why it matters
• how the 4Rs (recognise, respond, record and refer) of safeguarding can help you identify and respond to issues
• what policies and procedures you need to have and how to put them into practice
• practical safeguarding measures to keep young people safe in situations like overnight stays and social events.

> See the safeguarding apprentices masterclass

Our expert safeguarding consultants are also on hand if you need a little more support in creating and implementing your policies and procedures, or reviewing your current arrangements.

> Find out more about safeguarding consultancy

Whatever you need, we’re here to support you keep your apprentices safe every step of the way. 

Disclaimer: Snapshots are based on real Childline service users but are not direct quotes. All names and potentially identifying details have been changed to protect the identity of the child or young person involved.