. And these businesses wouldn't make a penny if they weren't stimulating the economy by offering goods and services consumers want. For millions, jobs are the route out of poverty. Independent body the Social Metrics Commission found securing a full-time salaried job cuts the risk of falling into poverty by 90 per cent. It's hard to keep the wolf from the door without employment, but the benefits are not just financial. Productive and meaningful employment gives us an opportunity to learn and develop our skills. It allows us to afford a better standard of living, get to know people we might not otherwise meet, and brings structure and routine which helps mental health and wellbeing. A job can also give life purpose and meaning. In January, the think tank Resolution Foundation found that more than a quarter of adults dip into their savings to pay for daily necessiti){kind=link}
MANY of us have teenage memories of a paper round or working in a local shop or cafe.
Those days taught us important lessons in having to get to work on time, being polite and respectful and learning new tasks.
And the best bit – getting paid.
My first job was walking a neighbour’s dog at weekends, then I worked at an independent electrical goods shop.
Without local firms like those where we get our first work experience, the economy would be on its knees.