Young people could be having a tough time finding work after the financial tsunami that has devastated the world's stock markets and caused many bankruptcies.
The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups recently interviewed 286 people aged between 15 and 39, seeking their views on the financial crisis. More than 40 per cent thought it would have a negative effect on the job market and starting their own businesses.
The federation has responded by establishing a hotline (2777 0309) to guide young people through the tough times ahead. The hotline, which was launched on October 11, is run by social workers. It is open Monday to Saturday from 2pm to 2am.
'The main purpose of the hotline is to provide counselling for young people who face pressure finding a job or who have been laid off,' said federation supervisor Gary Tang Leung-shun 'The pressure mainly comes from family, and it is the duty of our social workers to give them advice and let them know that they have options available.'
Mr Tang said the federation had other hotlines that help youngsters, but this one is exclusively for handling employment problems.