The Face of Work and a Recommitment to Work-Based Education in the UK

Over the past decade, the UK has undergone significant economic, demographic, and policy changes. Like the US, the UK suffers from high youth unemployment that disproportionately impacts young people of color, who often earn less and have less job security than their White British counterparts even while pursuing higher education. Brexit policies divided the nation and disrupted an already fragile labor market, increasing uncertainty for vulnerable workers. This chapter explores the social and historical conditions that led to Brexit and the UK workforce’s current challenges. We unpack how local municipalities are responding to social, educational, and workforce needs through cross-sector solutions and career-connected learning. We argue how social equity considerations must inform policy and practice in this torrid and historical moment.