Rising Neet Rates: A Call to Action

A new report says many young people in the UK are not working or studying. About 1 million people aged 16 to 24 are Neet. This means they are not in education, employment, or training. The report shows that problems like inequality and health issues are making this worse.

Alan Milburn's report highlights a growing problem in the UK, with about 1 million young people aged 16 to 24 classified as Neet, meaning they are not in education, employment, or training. This situation is worsening, with structural issues like inequality and health problems contributing to the rise. Milburn warns that we risk creating a lost generation, which could have serious economic consequences.

In his recent report, Alan Milburn, a former cabinet minister, outlines the alarming rise in the number of young people aged 16 to 24 who are classified as Neet—currently around 1 million in the UK. This figure represents a significant increase, with the UK now having one of the highest Neet rates in Europe. Milburn attributes this crisis to deep-rooted structural issues, including inequality, health problems, and a failing welfare system. He emphasizes that this is not merely a reflection of today's youth but rather a consequence of systemic disparities in wealth and opportunity. The report warns that without intervention, we risk losing an entire generation, with potential economic costs estimated at £125 billion.