Nearly One Million Young People Classified NEET in UK

Recent statistics reveal that nearly one million young people in the UK, aged 16-24, are not in education, employment, or training (NEET), marking the highest level in over a decade. The Office for National Statistics reported that 987,000 individuals fell into this category by the end of 2024, representing 13.4% of this age group. The rise is particularly pronounced among young men, with 14.4% classified as NEET compared to 12.3% of young women, and a significant proportion of these individuals are economically inactive rather than actively seeking work. Experts warn that poor mental health is a major barrier, with nearly 19.5% of NEET youth reporting mental health conditions. The government has announced a Youth Guarantee initiative aimed at ensuring all young people have opportunities for work or training. However, critics emphasize the urgent need for increased funding and comprehensive plans to support disadvantaged communities.