Former Labour Health Secretary Alan Milburn has launched a significant independent review into the escalating crisis of young people in Britain who are not in education, employment, or training (Neet).
A 'National Outrage' Demands Action
Launching the review at the Brothers Through Boxing community centre in Peterborough, Milburn described the situation as a 'national outrage', labelling it both a social injustice and an economic catastrophe. He emphasised the urgent need to mobilise a 'coalition of the concerned' to prevent the loss of a generation.
The stark figures underpinning the review reveal that nearly one million young people in Britain are currently classified as Neet, a number that has been rising steadily for four consecutive years. The review panel, which includes prominent figures such as ex-John Lewis chairman Sir Charlie Mayfield, former Bank of England chief economist Andy Haldane, and social welfare expert Dame Louise Casey, will investigate the root causes and propose solutions.
Examining the Drivers of Inactivity
Milburn's investigation is expected to scrutinise several key factors contributing to the rise in youth inactivity. A primary focus will be the role of mental health issues and disability, following a sharp increase in the number of 16- to 24-year-olds claiming health-related benefits. Notably, over a quarter of young Neets now cite long-term sickness or disability as the reason.
The review will also confront the profound inequalities at play. Data shows the risk of being Neet is more than double for those from disadvantaged backgrounds with low qualifications. Geographically, the problem is most acute in the north-east and north-west of England, followed by the East and West Midlands.
'My report will be unafraid to shine a light on uncomfortable truths and recommend where radical change is needed,' Milburn stated, promising an interim report in spring and a full publication in summer 2025.
Government Context and Parallel Reviews
The launch comes amidst other governmental efforts to address economic inactivity. Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden, who attended the Peterborough event, stated the government 'cannot ignore' the crisis denying young people their potential.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves's recent budget allocated £820 million to fund paid work placements for 18- to 21-year-olds who have been 'not earning or learning' for over 18 months. This review will run alongside another led by Welfare Minister Stephen Timms, focusing on the Personal Independence Payment system.
The findings are also set to build on the recent Mayfield review, which calculated that a young person on benefits misses out on approximately £1 million in lifetime earnings, with a similar cost to the state for their support.
Despite a history of reports and policy papers on the issue, both Conservative and Labour administrations have struggled to reverse the rising trend of youth inactivity, underscoring the complex challenge Milburn's review now faces.
