‘Earn or learn’ as youth unemployment and educational disengagement hits new high in the UK

Youth unemployment in the UK has reached its highest level in over a decade, with 987,000 young people aged 16 to 24 classified as NEET (not in education, employment, or training) by the end of 2024 — a 42% increase in three years.

This alarming rise raises concerns about financial instability, social isolation, and skill loss among young people.

Experts warn that conditions such as anxiety and depression often lead to disengagement from education and employment, exacerbating the NEET crisis

A major factor behind this surge is the worsening mental health crisis. The Children’s Society reports that 52% of 17 to 23-year-olds have experienced a mental health decline over the past five years. Experts warn that conditions such as anxiety and depression often lead to disengagement from education and employment, exacerbating the NEET crisis.

To combat this, the government has launched the ‘Youth Guarantee’, ensuring that every 18 to 21-year-old in England has access to apprenticeships, training, or job support. As part of this initiative, the government is partnering with the Premier League, Channel 4, and the Royal Shakespeare Company to offer wider work and learning opportunities.

The government’s Get Britain Working White Paper highlights that “people who can work, will be expected to work”

Additionally, eight “trailblazer” areas, including Liverpool City Region, Tees Valley, and the East Midlands, will receive £45 million to help young people most at risk of disengagement. An advisory panel will also be set up to make sure young people remain at the heart of reforms.

These changes aim to provide opportunities for young people to “earn or learn”, reducing long-term economic inactivity. However, utilising such opportunities will be up to young people themselves, and those not engaging without good reason may face consequences, including reductions in Universal Credit payments. The government’s Get Britain Working White Paper highlights that “people who can work, will be expected to work.”

While these measures are a step forward, some experts warn they don’t go far enough. Ben Harrison from Lancaster University’s Work Foundation argues that 22 to 24-year-olds face additional employment barriers and have been largely overlooked. Others stress that without stronger mental health services, education reforms, and job creation policies, these efforts may provide only short-term relief.