Amira Omer
London
More than one million young people in the United Kingdom are now neither in employment, education nor training, raising concerns among policymakers and experts about the emergence of a “lost generation.” Recent figures show the number of people aged 16 to 24 classified as NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training) has reached its highest level in over a decade. The latest data indicates that around 13% of young people fall into the NEET category, with many no longer actively seeking work. Experts warn that without urgent intervention, the figure could rise further in the coming years, potentially reaching 1.25 million by the start of the next decade.
A government-commissioned review led by former minister Alan Milburn described the situation as a growing national crisis. The report highlights a shortage of apprenticeship opportunities, declining numbers of entry-level jobs, and a welfare system that often fails to support young people back into employment. Mental health challenges and limited access to quality vocational training were also identified as major barriers. Despite concerns over youth inactivity, the review found that most young people outside work or education want employment or training opportunities. Campaigners argue that the problem is rooted not in a lack of ambition but in structural obstacles that make it difficult for young people to gain skills and secure stable jobs. The government has announced plans to expand work experience schemes, apprenticeships and employment support programmes. Ministers say hundreds of thousands of new placements will be created over the coming years to help young people enter the labour market.
Business groups and social policy experts have urged swift action, warning that prolonged disengagement from work and education can have lasting effects on earnings, wellbeing and economic productivity. With Britain facing labour shortages in several sectors, many argue that reconnecting young people with training and employment must become a national priority.
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