Responding to the latest NEET data, November 2024

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

“The number of young people not in education, employment or training is estimated to be at its highest level in a decade. The number of NEETs has risen by 150,000 since the pandemic, a 20% rise. Problems with the Labour Force Survey mean we should be cautious in interpreting the data, but it is clear too many young people are not in work or education. We urgently need to tackle this to prevent long-term damage to young people’s career prospects. The Government’s upcoming Youth Guarantee needs to include a step change in apprenticeships, education and help to find work.”