Rising Number of Young People Not in Education, Employment, or Training
The number of young individuals classified as not in education, employment, or training (Neet) has increased, approaching one million.
Official estimates indicate that 957,000 people aged 16 to 24 were Neet during the period from October to December 2025, representing 12.8% of that age group.
The UK is currently facing a weak labor market, with young people being particularly impacted by reductions in hospitality jobs and graduate schemes.
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported that these figures reflect a slight rise compared to the previous quarter, noting that more young people were actively seeking employment in the last three months of 2025.
Definition and Context of Neet Status
A young person is considered Neet if they are unemployed (actively looking for work) or economically inactive (not actively seeking work and not waiting to start a job or caring for family members).
Individuals engaged in formal education, such as attending school or university, or participating in apprenticeships or vocational courses, are not classified as Neet.
Government Measures to Address Youth Unemployment
In the previous year, Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced a policy offering guaranteed paid work placements to young people who have been out of employment or education for 18 months.
"Those who do not take up the offer could face being stripped of their benefits."
