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The UK government is launching an independent review into the growing number of young people not in education, employment, or training (Neet). Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden reported that nearly one million 16-24 year olds are currently not in work or education, marking the highest numbers in over a decade. The inquiry will be led by former Labour health secretary Alan Milburn, with its findings expected to be published in the summer of 2026. A quarter of young people out of work and education cite long-term sickness or disability as an obstacle, with 80 per cent of Universal Credit health claims related to mental health or neurodevelopmental conditions. McFadden described the situation as a “crisis of opportunity” and stressed the importance of policy responses to help young people, stating that work is the “best antidote” to many conditions.
