The number of young people in the UK classified as not in employment, education, or training (NEET) has seen a marginal decrease, but the overall total remains alarmingly close to the one million mark, according to the latest official statistics.
A Stubbornly High Figure
Data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows that an estimated 946,000 individuals aged 16 to 24 were NEET between July and September. This represents a very slight decline from the 948,000 recorded in the previous quarter from April to June.
Despite this minor quarterly improvement, the broader trend paints a concerning picture. The proportion of young people who are NEET has been on an upward trajectory since 2021, and the current level is the highest witnessed since 2014.
A detailed breakdown of the figures from April to June 2025 reveals that 39% of NEET young people were unemployed. The remaining 61% were classified as economically inactive, meaning they were not working, not seeking work, and/or not available to start work.
Political and Expert Reaction
The release of these figures has prompted strong reactions from across the political and educational spectrum, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
James Toop, Chief Executive of the education charity Teach First, stated that the statistics signify “futures grinding to a halt.” He emphasised that young people from low-income communities are disproportionately affected, “not because of a lack of talent but a lack of opportunity.” He called on the government to use the upcoming Budget as a chance to reverse this trend.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson acknowledged the scale of the challenge, stating, “The number of young people in our country who are not in education, employment or training is far too high.” She pointed to government initiatives such as the focus on school attendance and the newly launched youth guarantee as key measures to address the issue.
TUC General Secretary Paul Nowak described the figures as a “stark reminder of the toxic Tory legacy this government inherited,” but acknowledged the government's “positive start” with its new policies.
Government's Proposed Solutions
In response to the persistent problem, the government is pushing forward with its strategy to create more pathways for young people.
Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden commented, “We are tackling this crisis of opportunity with new energy and determination.” The cornerstone of this effort is the Youth Guarantee, which aims to ensure all 18 to 21-year-olds have access to education, training, an apprenticeship, or ultimately guaranteed paid work.
Furthermore, McFadden has commissioned former health secretary Alan Milburn to investigate how to tackle the root causes of youth inactivity by improving employment support, skills, health, and welfare services.
While the slight quarterly fall offers a glimmer of hope, the overwhelming consensus is that significant and sustained action is required to prevent a generation of young people from being left behind.
