Break the Experience Paradox: Demand Entry-Level Jobs That Train, Not Exclude

Recent signers:
Caroline Warner and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

In today's job market, a dangerous and unfair cycle is trapping millions of people - especially young adults, those returning to work, or anyone starting over 

It's called the Experience Paradox:

🔄 You can't get a job without experience. 

🔄 But you can't get experience without a job.

Entry-Level jobs - once meant for beginners - now require 1-2 years of prior experience. Employers expect applicants to already be trained, licensed, and transport-ready, without offering the opportunity to learn. This system locks people out of the workforce, especially those who:

  • Can't afford college or formal training
  • Don't have a car or money for travel 
  • Are eager to work, but just need a chance

We are calling on local and national governments, employers, and recruitment agencies to:

✅ Create real entry-level jobs with basic training included.

✅ Support candidates who don't have cars or formal education 

Offer paid work trials or skills-first hiring instead of experience-first rejection

✅ Fund and promote community-based work placement schemes

Everyone deserves a fair shot - not just those who can afford it.

Sign this petition if you believe motivation and potential should matter more than prior experience. Help us break the loop. Help people start somewhere.

avatar of the starter
Nicole SwalwellPetition StarterI'm someone with work experience, currently unemployed and trying to find a fair chance. I believe everyone deserves the opportunity to learn and grow - not be blocked by unrealistic job expectations.

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Recent signers:
Caroline Warner and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

In today's job market, a dangerous and unfair cycle is trapping millions of people - especially young adults, those returning to work, or anyone starting over 

It's called the Experience Paradox:

🔄 You can't get a job without experience. 

🔄 But you can't get experience without a job.

Entry-Level jobs - once meant for beginners - now require 1-2 years of prior experience. Employers expect applicants to already be trained, licensed, and transport-ready, without offering the opportunity to learn. This system locks people out of the workforce, especially those who:

  • Can't afford college or formal training
  • Don't have a car or money for travel 
  • Are eager to work, but just need a chance

We are calling on local and national governments, employers, and recruitment agencies to:

✅ Create real entry-level jobs with basic training included.

✅ Support candidates who don't have cars or formal education 

Offer paid work trials or skills-first hiring instead of experience-first rejection

✅ Fund and promote community-based work placement schemes

Everyone deserves a fair shot - not just those who can afford it.

Sign this petition if you believe motivation and potential should matter more than prior experience. Help us break the loop. Help people start somewhere.

avatar of the starter
Nicole SwalwellPetition StarterI'm someone with work experience, currently unemployed and trying to find a fair chance. I believe everyone deserves the opportunity to learn and grow - not be blocked by unrealistic job expectations.

The Decision Makers

Nigel Huddleston MP - MP for Mid Worcestershire
Nigel Huddleston MP - MP for Mid Worcestershire
Indeed UK - Job Board Leadership Team
Indeed UK - Job Board Leadership Team
Jo Churchill MP - Minister for Employment
Jo Churchill MP - Minister for Employment
Mel Stride MP - Secretary of State for Work and Pensions
Mel Stride MP - Secretary of State for Work and Pensions

Petition Updates