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The UK is facing a growing crisis as nearly one million young individuals aged 16 to 24 find themselves neither in education, employment, nor training (NEET). Recent statistics reveal that 957,000 young people fell into this category from October to December 2025, accounting for 12.8% of this age group. The latest figures, released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), indicate that while there is a slight uptick from the previous quarter, the numbers are marginally better than the same period last year.
A Fragile Job Market
The job landscape for young people has been particularly harsh, heavily impacted by cuts in sectors such as hospitality and a reduction in available graduate schemes. The ONS has observed that while the total number of NEETs has increased, the overall trend indicates a slight recovery, with more young individuals actively seeking employment in late 2025.
However, this increase reflects deeper issues within the job market, especially for young women. The ONS reported that 12.2% of young women were classified as NEET at the end of 2025, a notable rise compared to the previous quarter. In contrast, the number of young men in the same situation saw a slight decline during this timeframe.
Understanding NEET
The term NEET refers to individuals who are either unemployed—actively searching for work—or economically inactive, meaning they are not looking for work nor awaiting a job start. Importantly, those engaged in formal education or vocational training are not counted within this statistic.
Among the contributing factors to this rise in NEET numbers is the increasing prevalence of long-term sickness, mental health issues, and neurodivergence, which have hindered many young people from entering the workforce. Research conducted by the Youth Futures Foundation highlights these challenges, showing a significant correlation between these health concerns and economic inactivity.
Personal Stories of Struggle
For young individuals like Joseph, a 24-year-old from Solihull who is autistic, the job market presents insurmountable barriers. Having been unemployed for three years, Joseph shared their experience with BBC Newsbeat, stating, “There’s a real taboo around needing experience to get a job, but you can only gain experience through a job.” This cycle of needing experience yet being unable to secure employment reflects the frustrations faced by many in similar situations.
Joseph’s journey is supported by a youth worker from the King’s Trust, who is assisting them in navigating the complexities of job searching. Such personal stories underscore the need for empathy and understanding from employers, who often fail to see the strengths that neurodivergent individuals can bring to their roles.
Government Response and Initiatives
Pat McFadden, the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, acknowledges that the NEET issue is a persistent challenge. He emphasised the government’s commitment to supporting young people through various initiatives, including apprenticeship programmes aimed at increasing employment opportunities.
Last year, Chancellor Rachel Reeves introduced a scheme promising guaranteed paid placements for those who have been out of work or education for 18 months. However, there are concerns that young individuals who refuse these offers might face the loss of their benefits, raising questions about the adequacy and fairness of such measures.
An independent inquiry is currently underway to explore the factors contributing to the rise in NEET figures, with its findings expected in the summer. Alan Milburn, the former Labour Health Secretary leading this inquiry, has pledged to approach the matter sensitively and address any shortcomings in support systems related to employment, education, and health.
A Call to Action
As the number of NEETs hovers perilously close to one million, experts are calling for urgent action. Louise Murphy, a senior economist at the Resolution Foundation, warns that the current data paints a troubling picture for a generation facing complex barriers to employment. She advocates for immediate measures to prevent this situation from becoming a long-term crisis.
With ongoing discussions about policy changes, including potential adjustments to the minimum wage for young workers, there is a pressing need for the government to consider how best to support young people entering the workforce.
Why it Matters
The rising number of young people not engaged in education, employment, or training represents a significant societal challenge, reflecting deeper issues related to mental health, economic stability, and social equity. Addressing this crisis is not merely an economic necessity; it is a moral imperative to ensure that the next generation has the opportunity to thrive and contribute positively to society. The future of our youth is at stake, and their success is integral to the health of our economy and communities.
