One in eight young people still out of work or education ahead of major review
Just under one million young people in the UK are not in education, employment or training (Neet).
Approximately one in eight young individuals in the UK remain unemployed or uneducated, according to recently released data ahead of a comprehensive report addressing a "lost generation." The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported that 981,000 people aged 16 to 24 were Neet (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) between April and June, representing around 12% of the total age group population.
This figure represents a slight decrease from the previous quarter but a 3% increase compared to the same period last year, when the Neet count stood at 951,000 young people.
Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden affirmed that the UK labour market is robust but acknowledged a long-term challenge facing young people. Former Minister Alan Milburn's upcoming report is expected to offer recommendations to address this issue. The government has also introduced initiatives including 300,000 additional work experience placements and 50,000 more youth apprenticeships, as well as £3,000 hiring incentives for employers who hire young individuals who have been unemployed for six months.
The ONS data indicates that the latest figures, with 981,000 young people Neet between April and June, reveal a rise in Neet among men, with an additional 25,000 men falling into this category compared to 4,000 more young women.
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