Young people need opportunities to get ahead in life. Especially those from left behind communities need to know that if they work hard and apply themselves then doors will open for them.

Without these opportunities, social mobility is severely hindered. And one of the great enablers of social mobility used to be universities.

Unfortunately, confidence in the value of going to university has slumped amid declining job prospects.

The latest British Social Attitudes (BSA) survey found fewer people believe university is worth the time and money than 20 years ago.

University students during a graduation ceremony. PIC: Joe Giddens/PA Wire

placeholder image — University students during a graduation ceremony. PIC: Joe Giddens/PA Wire

The number of people saying it is not worth going to university hit a record high of 34 per cent last year, more than twice the 15 per cent who said the same thing in 2005.

It isn’t just graduates that are finding opportunities hard to come by. Even the first rung on the job ladder has been snatched away from young people.

Jobs such as those in hospitality and retail were once seen as a right of passage for many. Helping young people find their feet in the real world. Enabling them to develop soft skills that would stand them in good stead for the rest of their lives.

However, the unintended consequences of regulation has meant that businesses are unable to give young people the start that they need. The decline of the Saturday job is to be lamented.

There is often a gulf between universities and industries when it comes to the skills required and skills being developed. However, in Yorkshire are some that are doing a good job of engaging with businesses.