UK Young People Not Engaged in Work, Education, or Training Drop Below One Million
The number of young people in the UK who are neither in work nor education dropped below one million from April to June, according to official figures.
The number of young people in the UK who are not in employment, education, or training (NEET) dropped below one million from April to June 2026, as indicated by new official figures.
A total of 981,000 individuals aged 16 to 24 were classified as NEET during the period, a decrease from 1.011 million in the previous quarter.
The most recent figure accounts for 13.0% of the age group, in contrast to 13.5% from January to March, a period when the number of young individuals categorized as NEET peaked at its highest since 2013.
Despite the decline, youth economic inactivity continues to be a concern, with the most recent figure still 30,000 higher than the level recorded a year ago.
Work and Pensions Minister Pat McFadden emphasized that the figures highlight the necessity for ongoing initiatives to address youth inactivity, particularly by broadening work experience opportunities for individuals who have been unemployed for prolonged durations.
A report released in May by former minister Alan Milburn also emphasized concerns about young individuals staying outside of work and education.
Milburn cautioned that Britain might encounter a “lost generation” of young individuals who are neither in employment nor education. His report contended that the welfare system had played a role in increasing inactivity, while also highlighting a decrease in entry-level opportunities for individuals with low and medium skills.
The report also emphasized the decline of traditional part-time jobs, which have historically offered young individuals early work experience and a pathway into the labor market.
Meanwhile, research conducted by Lancaster University’s Work Foundation revealed that nearly half of medium-sized and large businesses had fewer job openings for young people compared to the previous year.
The research highlighted the increasing role of artificial intelligence and automation as elements transforming employment prospects for younger workers.
The Confederation of British Industry has expressed worries that increased employment taxes might deter businesses from hiring, which could restrict opportunities for young individuals entering the job market.
