A study has been commissioned by the Department of Work and Pensions to look at the employment prospects and rates of Neets (young people not in employment, education or training).

The current statistics show that –

• One in 10 (10.6%) of young people who are not studying or working has been educated to degree level or equivalent
• 35% of Neets had qualifications equivalent to A Levels of above

Calls are being made for more funding for technical and vocational courses, with former cabinet ministers arguing that too many young people are pushed into university rather than vocational or technical training. Schools have also been criticised for focusing too much on university education.

It is reported that too many qualified young people are finding it hard to secure employment. Employers increasingly demand skilled labour, but there is no provision within the education system to provide it.

Statistics show that degree level education numbers expand year on year, whilst vocational qualifications and further education numbers are declining. Apprenticeships are hard to secure, often resulting in those who need a practical stage to complete courses being unable to obtain this experience. 

The government plans to increase opportunities for young people, stating that “if every 16- to 23-year-old could enroll in a college, like they can in higher education, with funding guaranteed, Neet numbers would immediately drop”.

The government’s plans are expected to be made later this year, including the effect on the benefits system.

When considering the reason for young people not being in work, a quarter cite long-term sickness as the main reason. This is double the proportion of a decade ago.

Have you noticed challenges securing work if you are in the 16–23 year age bracket, or seen challenges for your own families?

If you work within a business, have you seen changes in the demographic of employees, with greater demand for skilled or qualified staff?

If you have any comments on this, or any other topic related to employment, please email us on tracey@cvprime.co.uk