Arabic version: البطالة بين الشباب في المملكة المتحدة تقترب من علامة المليون
The number of young people in the UK who are not in education, employment, or training (Neet) has risen, edging closer to one million. According to BBC News, official estimates indicate that 957,000 individuals aged 16 to 24 were classified as Neet in October to December 2025, representing 12.8% of this age group.
The rise in Neet figures reflects a weak job market, which has particularly impacted young people due to cuts in the hospitality sector and a reduction in graduate schemes. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported a slight increase from the previous quarter, although the current figures show a 0.4% decrease compared to the same period last year. Notably, the increase in Neets is largely attributed to a growing number of young women who are out of work, with 13.3% of them falling into this category.
The data reveals a 12.3% rise in unemployed Neets from the previous quarter, while the number of economically inactive Neets saw a decline of 6.6%. A young person is considered Neet if they are unemployed (looking for work) or economically inactive (not actively looking for work and not waiting to start a job or caring for family).
In response to the ongoing issue, Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced last year that young individuals who have been out of work or education for 18 months would be offered guaranteed paid work placements. Those who decline this offer could risk losing their benefits. Ben Harrison, Director of the Work Foundation at Lancaster University, emphasized the significant challenge facing both young people and the government, warning that without intervention, more youths may fall into long-term worklessness.
The ONS also acknowledged the volatility of Neet figures, which can fluctuate due to the smaller population size compared to broader unemployment statistics. The agency has faced criticism regarding the reliability of its data, particularly concerning the Labour Force Survey, and is working to enhance its response rates through increased interviewer recruitment.
