The UK government is seeking to address a significant increase in young people not in education, employment, or training (NEET). An independent review initiated by the government has identified a complex interplay of factors contributing to this trend.
The review, led by former Health Secretary Alan Milburn, challenges the notion that young people are unwilling to work, citing a survey that indicated 84% of NEET young people desire employment or training. Milburn's report suggests that a high volume of job rejections after numerous applications has become a common experience for young job seekers.
Contributing Factors
The report identifies a "perfect storm" of issues, including the state of the job market, education spending, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The availability of entry-level jobs has decreased by approximately 1.6 million over the past two decades. For instance, hospitality vacancies have halved in the last four years alone. The report also notes that opportunities for apprenticeships and graduate roles have been similarly affected.
Health issues have emerged as a significant factor, with a 70% increase over the past decade in individuals citing a work-limiting health condition as the reason for being NEET, according to the Health Foundation charity. The Youth Futures Foundation reports that the number of individuals citing a mental health condition has nearly doubled, now accounting for over 40% of those reporting health issues.
Impact on Disabled Youth
Milburn's review highlights the particularly severe situation for young people with disabilities. In the 2024-2025 period, 29.6% of disabled young people were NEET, a stark contrast to the 8.7% of their non-disabled peers.
The second phase of Milburn's report, expected in late 2026, will present recommendations to tackle the issue.