Impact of EU labour on the UK labour market

Although there is evidence of a more competitive labour market for young people seeking low-skilled, entry-level roles, our research has found that employers that hire migrant workers are also more likely to offer work experience, internships and apprenticeships – initiatives to help tackle the issue of youth unemployment. Employers who have turned to EU migrants to fill vacancies in recent years say they have done so because these recruits have brought the experience and commitment needed to support growth.

Our report, The growth of EU labour: assessing the impact on the UK labour market, aims to inform the debate about the impact of the increase in EU migrant workers on the UK labour market, and particularly on young UK-born workers. The CIPD calls for improved links between schools and colleges and business to equip young people to compete for the jobs that employers are looking to fill, and for a review of skills policy to address the high levels of youth unemployment and low-skilled and low-paid jobs in the UK.

Download the report and infographic below: