Speaking at the National Children's and Adult Services Conference in Liverpool last week, he warned that rising unemployment figures would deter employers from offering apprenticeships, which often appeal to young people who are at risk of becoming disengaged in employment or education.
His warning comes as sector leaders urge councils to plan further education provision for vulnerable young people ahead of the funding transfer to local authorities in 2010. The shift of funds, amounting to more than £7bn, from the Learning and Skills Council to local authorities, will make councils responsible for commissioning further education provision for 16- to 18-year-olds.
Freeman said council leaders should use the transfer to provide integrated packages of learning and support. He said: "We need to think about new ways of meeting young people's needs. The intention is to bring commissioning together strategically."
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