The number of young people in the UK not in education, employment, or training – known as Neets – has risen to nearly 1 million, according to recently released data, raising concerns about the long-term health of the UK economy.
Rising Numbers of Neets
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) indicated that 957,000 people aged between 16 and 24 were not working as of December. This compares to 946,000 Neets in the period between July and September. ONS analysts noted that the data may be subject to “greater volatility” due to smaller sample sizes.
ONS labour market division head David Freeman stated that higher unemployment levels contributed to the increase in Neets. The final quarter of the year saw a larger increase in the number of female Neets, although men still comprise more than half of the total number of people not in operate.
Youth Unemployment and Government Response
Youth unemployment within the 16-24 age group has exceeded 16 percent, compared to just over 5 percent for the general working population. Work and pensions secretary Pat McFadden described the high number of Neets as a “concern” and a “long-term challenge.”
The Labour government has stated that its youth guarantee programme and apprenticeship offerings for small businesses will help address the crisis.
Opposition Concerns
The Conservative opposition argues that high student loan burdens and low-value university degrees have disincentivized young people from entering the workforce. Shadow work secretary Helen Whately said nearly 1 million young people are “completely trapped” as a result of government tax decisions.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves is facing calls to address the issue at the upcoming Spring Statement, though the government has indicated it will primarily focus on revisions to forecasts from the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR). The Resolution Foundation has suggested that addressing Neets should be an “exception” to this strategy, and economists have proposed pausing the convergence of the minimum wage with the living wage while expanding Labour’s jobs guarantee.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Neet?
A Neet is a young person aged between 16 and 24 who is not in education, employment, or training.
How many Neets are there in the UK?
As of December, the ONS suggested there were 957,000 Neets in the UK.
What is the government doing to address the issue?
The Labour government has said its youth guarantee programme and apprenticeship offerings across small businesses would help to tackle the crisis.
Given these concerning trends, what steps can be taken to better support young people in securing their future economic prospects?
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