Yesterday’s unemployment figures have focused public attention further on the growing problem of youth unemployment, but a number of parties suggest that young people with the right attitude can make that breakthrough.

Additionally, Nigel Meager, director of the Institute for Employment Studies, points out that youth unemployment figures should not necessarily be considered as gospel: “There is a debate about changes in the way in which the figures are collated and the inclusion of some groups of students.”

Managing director of Manpower UK, Mark Cahill, says: “It’s all too easy to just gloomily sink our heads into our hands, but there are still opportunities for young people with the right attitude.

“We are helping young people into work every day and have thousands of open vacancies for others showing a real desire and determination to work. Those with a ‘refuse to lose’ attitude will find work.”

Director of multi-sector recruiter Quest, Jo Barnard, says: “As we get closer to Christmas, recruitment always tends to slow down and that may well be reflected in today’s figures, but there will always be opportunities for dynamic young people prepared to work hard and make a career for themselves.”

The suggestion of a festive slowdown contrasts with the findings of a report by North American job board CareerCast.com, as reported this morning on recruiter.co.uk.