Addressing the UK’s Rising NEET Crisis: Helping Young People into Work and Education

The UK is facing a growing challenge—nearly one million young people aged 16 to 24 are currently NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training). The latest figures show that 13.4% of this age group were classified as NEET between October and December 2024, the highest level in over a decade.

But behind these numbers are real people—young individuals with potential, aspirations, and abilities that are often overlooked or under-supported. Addressing this crisis is not just about statistics; it is about creating pathways, breaking barriers, and ensuring no young person gets left behind.

Understanding Why Young People Become NEET

There is no single reason why so many young people find themselves without work or education opportunities. The reality is complex and shaped by various factors, including:

• Economic pressures – A tough job market, rising living costs, and financial instability make it harder for young people to find secure employment.
• Education disruptions – The long-term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have led to learning gaps, lack of qualifications, and uncertainty about career options.
• Mental health struggles – Anxiety, depression, and lack of confidence can prevent young people from engaging in work or education.
• Lack of guidance – Many simply do not know what options are available or how to access support that could help them take the next step.

This issue does not just affect young people—it impacts society and the economy. A generation that is not given the right support risks being locked out of opportunities, which can lead to long-term unemployment, financial difficulties, and wider social challenges.

Recognising Potential in Every Young Person

Every young person has talent, skills, and something valuable to offer—but too often, traditional pathways do not acknowledge this.

Not everyone thrives in academic environments, and many young people struggle to showcase their strengths if they lack formal qualifications or work experience. Fortunately, attitudes are shifting. More employers now recognise that practical skills, adaptability, and real-world experience are just as important as grades.

Key skills such as problem-solving, teamwork, creativity, and resilience are often developed outside of traditional education—through volunteering, personal projects, caring responsibilities, or even hobbies. The challenge is helping young people demonstrate these skills in a way that employers understand and value.

Practical Ways to Support Young People into Work and Education

There are real, tangible ways to help young people gain confidence, skills, and access to opportunities. Here are some key areas where action can make a difference:

1. Early Support and Guidance

The earlier young people receive clear, practical advice, the better. Schools, colleges, and support services need to:

• Identify those at risk of becoming NEET before they disengage.
• Offer tailored guidance that takes into account different strengths, interests, and circumstances.
• Help young people see a future for themselves, whether in education, work, or training.

2. Clear and Accessible Career Options

Many young people simply do not know what is out there beyond traditional routes like university. Raising awareness of alternative pathways—such as apprenticeships, vocational training, and entry-level roles—can open doors they never even considered.

Practical steps include:

• More career workshops and employer talks in schools.
• Increased awareness of apprenticeship schemes and traineeships.
• Better promotion of hands-on career paths that suit different learning styles.

3. Boosting Practical Skills and Experience

The “experience trap” is a major problem—many jobs require experience, but young people cannot get experience without a job. Work placements, internships, and mentoring bridge this gap by providing:

• Hands-on exposure to different careers.
• The chance to build confidence in professional settings.
• CV-boosting experience that makes job applications stand out.

4. Engaging with Employers While Still in Education

The transition from school to work can feel overwhelming. That is why it is important to connect young people with employers before they leave education.

• Work placements and employer-led projects bring real-world experience into classrooms.
• Internships and shadowing opportunities give insight into different industries.
• Networking with professionals helps build confidence and aspirations.

By fostering early employer engagement, young people feel better prepared and less intimidated when they enter the job market.

5. Supporting Mental Well-being

A lack of confidence and poor mental health are huge barriers to employment and education. Many young people feel overwhelmed by expectations or fear rejection.

Practical support includes:

• Mental health services tailored to young people’s needs.
• Coaching and mentoring to build self-belief.
• A culture shift towards workplaces that prioritise well-being and inclusivity.

If young people feel mentally strong, they are far more likely to take positive steps towards employment or education.

6. Creating More Inclusive Opportunities

One-size-fits-all solutions do not work. Career pathways should reflect the diverse talents, needs, and learning styles of young people today.

This means:

• Flexible learning options for those who struggled in traditional education.
• More hands-on, skills-based training opportunities.
• Accessible job roles that focus on practical ability over formal qualifications.

When young people feel that opportunities exist for them, they are far more likely to engage, succeed, and thrive.

How Startingpoint Can Help

Our Startingpoint platform can play a vital role in bridging the gap between potential and opportunity.

By offering a space for young people to showcase their skills and strengths, Startingpoint allows them to:

• Build a personal profile that highlights their abilities.
• Demonstrate real-world skills beyond qualifications.
• Connect with employers who value diverse talent.

This is crucial because it ensures young people are seen for what they can do, not just what is on paper.

Working Together to Build a Brighter Future

The rising number of young people struggling to find their way into work or education is a national issue that requires collaboration and commitment from all parts of society.

• Employers can play a role by offering more entry-level opportunities that focus on skills rather than experience.
• Schools and colleges should broaden career guidance to highlight alternative routes into employment.
• Communities can support young people by providing mentoring and networking opportunities.

By working together, we can change the narrative—ensuring that no young person is left behind, and that everyone has the chance to build a future full of possibilities.