Restore fairness. Back work. Build real routes into jobs.
Young people who do the right thing deserve a fair deal.
If someone studies, trains and works hard, the system should reward that effort. Too often today, it does not.
Student loan interest can run above inflation. That means debt can grow even while someone is repaying it. At the same time, too many young people struggle to move from education into stable work.
That is why Graham is backing A New Deal for Young People.
It is about restoring fairness, strengthening routes into work and making sure the next generation has the chance to build a life.
What the New Deal Will Do
End the Student Loan Debt Treadmill
Under the current system, many graduates see their student loan balance rise even while they are repaying it.
The New Deal would:
• Cap student loan interest at inflation, and no higher
• Abolish real interest rates on Plan 2 loans
• Ensure balances never rise faster than the cost of living
If you are repaying your loan, it should not grow in real terms.
Expand Apprenticeships
University is not the only path to success.
We need stronger vocational routes into work so young people can build skills and earn while they learn.
The New Deal would:
• Introduce an Apprenticeships Guarantee for 18–21 year olds
• Lift funding caps so employers can take on more apprentices
• Strengthen technical and vocational routes into skilled jobs
University or apprenticeship, both should lead somewhere.
Back First Jobs
Getting that first job is often the hardest step.
The New Deal would introduce a £5,000 First Job Bonus.
The first £5,000 of National Insurance contributions paid when someone starts work would go into a personal savings account, helping young people build financial security for the future.
That could support:
• Saving for a first home
• Starting a business
• Building long-term financial security
Work should help people build assets and stability.
Why This Matters
Young people are doing what we ask of them.
They study.
They train.
They look for work.
But too many feel the system is working against them rather than for them.
If we want young people to rent a flat, save for a home, start a business and start a family, we must give them a fair start.
That means rewarding effort, backing skills and creating real routes into work.
Have Your Say
Graham is gathering views from local residents about student loans and the wider system for young people starting out.
Your experience will help shape the campaign for a fairer deal.
