New app aims to transform how young people access jobs

yattle, developed for young people in Glasgow, was launched this week and is designed to help 16 to 29-year-olds connect with jobs, apprenticeships and volunteering roles in a more accessible way.

The app was created by the Glasgow Chamber of Commerce and Glasgow City Council with support from the Glasgow Futures partnership in collaboration with Glasgow-based tech agency Loopsio.

(Image: Supplied)

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It was developed in direct response to concerns raised by Glasgow Chamber members and the Glasgow Employment and Skills Board (GESB) about the difficulties of engaging young people through traditional methods.

Designed with help from more than 100 young people, the app replaces traditional CVs with skill-based profiles and uses matching technology to connect users with opportunities that fit their strengths.

It includes features such as day-in-the-life videos, a live feed and user-friendly language.

Young talent in software engineering and digital design contributed to the app’s creation, with guidance from industry professionals.

(Image: Supplied) Alison McRae, senior director at Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, said: "yattle has been shaped with the voices of young people at its heart, providing them with a clear and practical route into work.

"By offering direct access to jobs, apprenticeships and work experience, the app empowers young people to take control of their future and manage the process in one place with easy-to-use technology.

"We recognise the challenges businesses face in reaching future talent.

"With the support of the GESB, yattle has been designed to make it easier for them to connect with a young audience, share opportunities in a consistent and accessible way, as well as strengthening the pipeline between education and employment across the city region."

Employers including Arnold Clark, AC Whyte, ScotRail, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, and JPMorgan Chase are already backing the initiative.

(Image: Supplied)

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Carole Anne McCann, head of recruitment at Arnold Clark, said: "We’re excited to be working with Glasgow Chamber of Commerce and local employers through the GESB on yattle.

"The app is a fresh, simple way for young people to connect directly with employers and discover real opportunities that suit them and their needs."

Frankie Barrett, group manager for employment and strategy at Glasgow City Council, said: "As a city, we are committed to ensuring that all young people have access to high-quality jobs.

"yattle is an exciting new app that will transform how our young people engage with the labour market.

"We’re also thrilled to see great employers committing to the app as a way to fill their vacancies with talented young people, helping to build a stronger, more inclusive workforce for Glasgow."

To find out more about the app, or to get involved, visit the yattle website.