The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has warned that the UK risks losing a generation unless urgent action is taken to address rising youth unemployment. A new report by the BCC’s People and Work Challenge Group reveals that nearly one million young people are currently not in employment, education, or training (NEET) a figure that has risen by over 110,000 in the past year, reaching 987,000 by the end of 2024.
The report urges government to remove barriers preventing young people from entering the workforce and recommends investment in employment support, targeted SME assistance, and expanded workplace health initiatives. It also calls for a national target to reduce the UK’s NEET rate to match that of the Netherlands. The BCC estimates solving the NEET issue could boost the UK economy by £69 billion.
Businesses also have a role to play. Currently, just 13% of firms have recruitment or training strategies focused on under-25s. SMEs in particular are missing out on the long-term benefits of engaging young talent.
Mental health remains a significant barrier. Research from The King’s Trust shows one in four NEETs cite mental health as a reason they can’t work. Over half report that the longer they’re unemployed, the harder it is to find work, while many lose confidence in their skills.
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