Adults with graduate degrees have been hit hardest by the recession, new figures have shown. In data acquired by the Liberal Democrats, figures show that one in five unemployed 18 to 24 year-olds has a degree.

Since the beginning of 2008 the percentage of 18 to 24 year-olds has risen from 5.8% to 18%. 20.3% of this group had graduated university. Around 20,000 people who graduated in 2008 have been unable to find employment, 6,000 more than the previous year’s graduates. A further 3,500 are currently in unpaid jobs and 23,000 are working part-time.

NUS President, Wes Streeting, said, “These startling figures show that much more needs to be done to support unemployed young people, particularly graduates.”

Despite these figures, a spokesman for the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills released a statement saying “A degree is a good investment in your future career…even in these difficult times.”