Nearly one million UK youths aged 16-24 are NEET, says the Department for Education. This highlights urgent need for education and employment reforms.

Just under one million young people in the United Kingdom are not in education, employment or training, the Department for Education said Tuesday.

The figure, 985,000, represents roughly one in eight people aged 16 to 24, according to the department's latest statistics.

What the NEET figure means

Young people classified as NEET face higher risks of long‑term unemployment and lower earnings potential. Analysts note that the size of the group influences overall economic productivity and social cohesion.

Government response

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced a review of youth policies ahead of the next fiscal year. A Department for Education spokesperson said the review will assess existing training programmes and consider new incentives for employers. "Our goal is to reduce the number of young people who fall through the gaps," the spokesperson added.

The government plans to publish an action plan by early 2025, outlining targeted support for regions with the highest NEET rates.

Next steps

Education officials will monitor quarterly data releases to track progress. Schools and colleges are urged to expand apprenticeship opportunities and vocational courses.

The 985,000 NEET figure comes from the latest Department for Education data, released in a press release on Tuesday.