The interim report of the Milburn review into young people not in education, employment or training (NEET) has highlighted the growing number of young people falling into this category. In this briefing, we review the evidence, including whether the analysis applies to Scotland, where many of the potential solutions are devolved.
One million young people aged 16 to 24 in the United Kingdom who are not in education, employment or training. One in 8 young people, and rising. Comparing NEET data is challenging because the Scottish Government uses a different participation measure. Apprenticeship starts are much higher in Scotland, despite recent falls, but other factors appear to apply equally here.
Despite predictable employer organisation responses, higher national insurance rates, increases in the minimum wage and employment protections all pre-date the problem. Many NEETs also don’t claim benefits, and those who do have remained stable for years. The UK compares poorly with other European countries, which focus on a combination of education and work measures.
The Milburn review has identified not just a crisis for young people – it is a crisis for our whole society. It will require a whole-scale system change, not just tinkering at the edges of the welfare system, education, or work.