Young people facing disadvantage have experienced particular unemployment challenges through the pandemic and it is crucial that employers create jobs and workplaces where they can develop and build long-term careers.

This evidence review is published in partnership with Youth Futures Foundation. It builds on the previous review on recruiting disadvantaged young people, to give evidence-based answers to these questions: 

  • What drives disadvantaged young people to leave or stay in their jobs?
  • What can employers do to retain disadvantaged young people?
  • What can employers do to build inclusive work environments for disadvantaged young people?

See the practice summary for the main insights and practical recommendations for action. 

See the scientific summary for our methodology and technical information on the research and study references.

Member tool: CIPD Buddy AI
Use AI to find trusted answers on our Knowledge hub. Start using CIPD Buddy

To continue reading, log in or become a member

Affiliate membership offers instant access to CIPD resources without the need for assessments or study, or explore your options to become a professional member of the CIPD to demonstrate your commitment to the world of work.

  • Access to exclusive, up-to-date resources
  • Become part of a community to learn, debate and connect with other people professionals
  • Free access to a series of CIPD learning courses and a discount on the rest of our catalogue
Instant access Explore membership
  • A group in a meeting
    Thought leadership

    Future-focused HR: How can HR practitioners stay ahead and prepare for 2026?

    Rebecca Peters, Senior Policy and Practice Adviser, outlines some of the biggest changes impacting people practices in 2026 and what actions people teams can take now. Offering a legal perspective, Shoosmiths' Paul Stokey, Partner and Head of People and Reward, and Emma Morgan, Partner and immigration specialist, highlight some of the key legal considerations under these reforms

    • All evidence reviews