Managing a fragile motivation within an unfit organisation: young adults’ experiences of support to achieve employment

Abstract

This article explores subjective realities of being not in employment, education or training (NEET), with a specific focus on support needs and how labour market support fits these needs. A total of 23 semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants aged 18–29 who had just been recruited to a work support program aimed at increasing the availability, coordination, and individualisation of support in order to enhance the possibility of finding work. The results illustrate a clear yet fragile motivation to work among the respondents. The participants expressed optimism that they would find a job, but were also clear about the need for adaptations in the workplace to succeed. Through the lens of crip time, the participants expressed a need for flexibility and extra time to perform tasks such as finding a job and feeling comfortable in the workplace, compared to the needs of abled people. Rules and time limits at the Public Employment Service and the Social Insurance Agency reinforced the image of this normative time, making the participants express their needs as a deviation from what is considered normal.