The latest statistics from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) have revealed a concerning trend among young people in the UK. In April to June 2024, over half a million individuals aged 16 to 24 were classified as economically inactive, not in education, employment, or training (NEET), and not actively seeking work. This number has increased by 75,000 compared to the previous year, highlighting a growing issue that needs to be addressed.
Of the 540,000 economically inactive young people, 280,000 were young men and 260,000 were young women. Interestingly, the increase in the total number of economically inactive young people was primarily driven by young men, who saw a significant rise of 93,000 compared to the previous year. In contrast, the number of economically inactive young women decreased by 18,000 during the same period.
In addition to the economically inactive group, there were also 872,000 young people who were classified as NEET but actively seeking work in April to June 2024. This figure has increased from 798,000 in the same period in 2023, indicating a growing number of young individuals struggling to find opportunities for education or employment.
When questioned about the situation, both the Department of Work and Pensions and the Department of Education failed to provide information on what the 540,000 economically inactive young people were doing. This lack of clarity has raised concerns among policymakers and advocates for youth empowerment.
Labour’s newly appointed works and pension secretary, Liz Kendall, expressed her concerns about the impact of economic inactivity on both individuals and the economy. She emphasized the need for proactive measures to address the issue and ensure that young people are given the support and opportunities they need to thrive.
Leigh Evans, the founder of Facts4EU, also highlighted the urgency of the situation, calling for a special investigation by the government to propose solutions for the half a million young people who have seemingly „fallen between the cracks“ of government departments. He stressed that this issue cannot be overlooked and requires immediate attention to prevent further setbacks for young individuals in the UK.
In conclusion, the increasing number of economically inactive young people in the UK is a pressing issue that demands swift action and targeted interventions. By addressing the root causes of economic inactivity among young individuals and providing them with the necessary support and opportunities, we can ensure a brighter future for the next generation. It is essential for policymakers, government agencies, and advocacy groups to work together to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for young people to thrive and contribute to society.