Youth Unemployment and Education Challenges in the UK: Latest Insights and Government Response
Between July and September 2025, 946,000 young people aged 16 to 24 were neither working nor studying, representing more than one in ten in this age group. The NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) population disproportionately includes young men, with higher rates in the North East and East of England regions. Over half of these young people have a health condition, and about 20% have a mental health condition.
Factors contributing to this situation include the rising costs associated with higher education, a stagnant economy, a tighter labour market, and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on young people. Additionally, 16-24-year-olds are nearly six times more likely to be employed on zero-hours contracts compared to older groups.
Polling data from More in Common reveals varying political preferences within the youth demographic. Among young women, the Green Party leads, while young men show a tie between the Greens and Reform parties at around 20%, with Labour leading at 30%. Notably, Reform garners more support among young men without a university degree.
Government responses acknowledge the severity of youth unemployment. A government minister commented that life for young people can be "insecure," and a cabinet minister admitted that young people receive a raw deal in the current economic climate. On mental health issues, Wes Streeting has called for a formal review into possible over-diagnosis of mental health problems among young people.
In policy terms, the government has announced the Youth Guarantee, which aims to provide guaranteed paid work to those out of work or education for 18 months. Further details will be provided by Pat McFadden, with a wider review led by Alan Milburn due next year. Public debate continues on welfare incentives, including proposals such as 'right to try,' which would allow individuals to test work opportunities without the risk of losing benefits. Welfare reform and the generational divide remain central concerns in these discussions.
