Former Labour minister Alan Milburn has delivered a stark warning about the growing number of young people in the UK who are not in education, employment, or training (NEET). His government-commissioned report describes the situation as both a social and economic crisis, with almost one million young people now disconnected from work, education, or skills development.
According to the report, the UK’s NEET rate has worsened significantly over the past decade and is now among the highest in Europe. Milburn argues that the issue is not caused by laziness or a lack of ambition among young people. Instead, he says deep-rooted structural problems are preventing many from accessing opportunities.
Inequality Driving the Crisis
The report highlights major inequalities across the country. Young people living in poorer regions, particularly in parts of the Midlands and northern England, are far more likely to become NEET compared with those living in wealthier areas such as London.
Educational disadvantage is another major factor. Young people with low GCSE results, special educational needs, or histories of persistent absence from school face a much higher risk of struggling to find employment or continue their education. Care leavers and young carers are also identified as particularly vulnerable groups.
Mental Health Concerns Increasing
Mental health issues are playing an increasingly important role in the rise of economic inactivity among young people. Anxiety, depression, and neurodevelopmental conditions are now strongly linked to long-term disengagement from work and education.
The report criticises both the healthcare and welfare systems for failing to provide effective support. Milburn argues that too much emphasis is placed on assessing people as unfit for work rather than helping them regain confidence and access employment opportunities.
Challenges in the Modern Job Market
The report also examines how technology and changing recruitment practices are making it harder for young people to secure jobs. Many applicants now face automated recruitment systems and AI-driven filtering processes, often without speaking directly to employers.
At the same time, many traditional entry-level roles in retail, warehousing, and customer service have declined or become more specialised. Employers are also becoming less willing to hire younger workers due to concerns about training costs and additional support needs.
A Warning for the Future
Milburn warns that without urgent reforms, the UK risks creating a “lost generation” of young people excluded from economic opportunity. He calls for improvements in careers guidance, education, transport, mental health services, and employment support systems.
The second phase of the review is expected to focus on solutions aimed at helping more young people move into education, training, and sustainable employment.