Responding to the latest NEET data, February 2025

Responding to the latest ONS figures on young people who are NEET (not in education, employment or training), Stephen Evans, chief executive at Learning and Work Institute, said:

“There are now almost one million young people estimated to not be in education, employment or training, risking long-term harm to their career prospects. Problems with the Labour Force Survey mean the data are uncertain, but there does seem to be an upward trend in recent years, particularly for young men. Today’s worrying rise may signal further trouble ahead in the absence of economic growth, and highlights the importance of implementing a Youth Guarantee so all young people are offered a job, training place or apprenticeship.”