Vox Pop: Will an all-age careers service benefit young people?

YES - Paul Chubb, director, Careers England

I say yes but the government will have to ensure that the service is balanced properly so that it can cater for the needs of both young people and adults. You do not necessarily need to be a specialist for young people, but should be equipped with the skills and knowledge to support whoever is receiving the advice. What is important is that the advice is independent and based on good knowledge of the market.

NO - Andrew Purvis, chief executive, Fairbridge

With the number of young people not in education, employment or training expected to grow, targeted support, guidance and information services have never been more important. They are a key part of enabling preventative and cost-effective services. Evidence shows that provision that is youth-focused; employs expert youth workers, creates positive adult relationships and works in partnership with other youth agencies is most successful in engaging those furthest from the job market. My concern would be that a one-size- fits-all structure would lose those very elements that we know work.