An independent investigation has been launched into the growing number of young people who are not in education, employment or training (NEET).
The review, which will be led by Alan Milburn the former social mobility commissioner and ordered by the Department of Work and Pensions, will focus in particular on the impact of mental health conditions and disabilities which has led to a “crisis of opportunity”. However, it will not cover the existing SEND system.
Figures show that almost a million 16- to 25-year-olds are currently NEET, with a quarter citing long-term sickness or disability as the cause.
The number of young people claiming Universal Credit health and employment support allowance has risen by more than 50% in the last five years, with about 80% of those claimants citing mental health or a neurodevelopment condition.
The review will be uncompromising in exposing failures in employment support, education, skills, health and welfare
Pat McFadden, the work and pensions secretary, said: “The rising number of young people who are not in education, employment or training (NEET) is a crisis of opportunity that demands more action to give them the chance to learn or earn.
“We cannot afford to lose a generation of young people to a life on benefits, with no work prospects and not enough hope.”
Milburn said urgent action was needed. “We cannot stand by and let a generation of young people be consigned to a life without employment or prospects. It’s clear urgent action is needed,” he said.
“That’s why with the help of a panel of expert advisors; I will aim to get to the bottom of why current efforts are not preventing young people from becoming trapped out of work and education.
“The review will be uncompromising in exposing failures in employment support, education, skills, health and welfare and will produce far-reaching recommendations for change to enhance opportunities for young people to learn and earn.”
Interim findings will be shared with ministers in the spring, and the final report published in summer 2026.
