GREC conducted research in 2015-17, with over 200 people taking part in surveys, interviews and focus groups. 71% of research participants faced barriers, difficulties or obstacles in looking for work. Among those who had not, some had not looked for work because of family commitments.
Almost a third of participants had underestimated how long it can take to secure a job, and 20% of participants – all female – had trouble finding work due to lack of childcare. Those who cited discrimination (16%) tended to be more highly qualified, with higher expectations about how they should be treated by employers. 10% of participants felt they were disadvantaged by their lack of experience in Scotland, and their qualifications not being recognised. This was associated with a general lowering of expectations and either acceptance or frustration at being underemployed.
Only 14% of participants mentioned language, including issues with jargon and dialects – but most participants did not seek jobs which required English proficiency. However, this also contributes to people becoming ‘stuck’ in particular types of employment.
Also see 2016 Interim Summary Report: Link.