Employers stand ready to help solve the NEETs crisis – if government will let them

The government is promising job creation, yet employers argue it is ultimately their responsibility to fill these roles. Alan Milburn’s review, expected soon, aims to provide a structured approach to addressing the NEET crisis. The Netherlands, with a NEET rate of 4.1%, suggests that employer involvement is key to reducing this figure.

The interim review suggests each NEET costs £22,571 in lost tax and increased spending, while investing in benefits costs £1 to help people find work. Greene King, a hospitality company, has made significant strides in hiring NEET individuals, with over 19,500 apprentices and successful reintegration of former prisoners. These initiatives have led to long-term employment and personal growth, demonstrating that investing in these programmes can yield significant returns.

The Jobs Foundation's research shows that businesses that hire locally see staff retention for decades. To encourage more employers to participate, the government must involve them in discussions early and alleviate the cost of hiring inexperienced workers. A corporate pledge, initiated by the Jobs Foundation, encourages businesses to prove their outreach and hiring efforts, with support from major companies like Amazon, M&S, and Greene King.

While corporate pledges are easy to sign, their effectiveness depends on follow-through, and the government plays a crucial role in ensuring employers are ready to take on the responsibility of employing the most hard-to-reach young people.