Overview
- Official Office for National Statistics data, published in late May, show the number of 16–24‑year‑olds not in education, employment or training rose to about 1.01 million in January–March 2026, the highest level since 2013.
- The interim review led by Alan Milburn projects NEETs could reach roughly 1.25 million by 2031 and describes the trend as risking a 'lost generation' unless the system is overhauled.
- The review pins the rise on a sharp shrinkage of entry‑level opportunities, citing 1.6 million fewer low and medium skilled posts, hospitality vacancies halved in four years, and a roughly 35% fall in apprenticeship starts over the past decade.
- It highlights worsening health barriers, especially rising anxiety and depression, that have shifted many young people from unemployment into economic inactivity and estimates the fiscal and social cost at about £125 billion a year while noting roughly £25 is spent on benefits for every £1 on youth employment support.
- The government has acknowledged the scale and announced short‑term steps — a Youth Jobs Grant, expanded apprenticeships and extra work placements — and says detailed, cross‑departmental reform proposals from Milburn will follow later in 2026.