Nearly 200,000 more young people not in work or training

The number of young people in Britain who are not in education, employment, or training (NEETs) has increased by almost 200,000 over the past two years, bringing the total to 940,000. This figure is on track to exceed one million for the first time in more than a decade. A significant contributor to this rise is a doubling of inactivity due to disability or ill health since 2005, which now represents over a quarter of all NEETs. In response, the government has proposed a 'Youth Guarantee' policy designed to ensure young people are either working or in education. This policy could involve offering paid work to those who have been on Universal Credit for over 18 months. However, there are concerns that the policy might also include benefit sanctions for those who refuse work. Additionally, the government is exploring restricting Universal Credit eligibility for individuals under 22 based on health. Recommendations from various organizations include establishing a national "front door" service to help young people re-enga... download the app to read more