A national youth charity has released a manifesto calling for politicians to do more to support young people to find jobs and contribute to society

YMCA stands ready to work in partnership with local and national government in Scotland to ensure that every young person has the opportunity to belong, contribute and thrive

Young Scots need more jobs, training and career support if they are to thrive in the future and support Scotland’s economy, a national charity has said.

A manifesto created by YMCA, which draws on the experience and opinions of young people, has called for politicians of all parties to do more for young people.

In particular it calls for more training, job options and careers advice, better access to services and activities that improve health, and the protection of youth work services.

The manifesto, We Believe, also calls for more preventative programmes for young people at risk of offending.

Kerry Reilly, chief executive of YMCA Scotland said: “As young people aged 16 and 17 prepare to vote in the Scottish Parliamentary elections for the first time, the YMCA is committed to working with others across Scotland to ensure that the voice of our young people is heard.

“YMCA stands ready to work in partnership with local and national government in Scotland to ensure that every young person has the opportunity to belong, contribute and thrive”.