A new report warns that the number of young people not in work or education in Britain could rise to 1.25 million by the early 2030s without urgent government action. The landmark review, led by Alan Milburn, highlights the risk of a “lost generation” and a “generational fault line” between young and old unless immediate steps are taken to overhaul schools, the health service, the welfare system, and the jobs market.
Alarming Predictions
The report paints a stark picture of the future for young people in the UK. Without significant policy changes, the economic inactivity rate among 16- to 24-year-olds is expected to climb dramatically. This would represent a major setback for a generation already facing challenges from the pandemic and rising living costs.
Key Recommendations
Milburn’s review calls for a comprehensive strategy that includes:
- Education reform: Better preparing students for the modern workforce.
- Health service improvements: Addressing mental health issues that hinder employment.
- Welfare system updates: Providing targeted support for young jobseekers.
- Job market interventions: Creating more opportunities for apprenticeships and training.
Voices of the Young
The Guardian is seeking to hear directly from young people in the UK who are not in work or education. We want to understand their job hunting experiences, how many applications they have made, and their thoughts on the report. If you are 18 or over, you can share your story anonymously via the secure form or messaging services.
Your responses will be kept confidential and used only for this feature. Personal data will be deleted when no longer needed. For secure communication, you can contact us on WhatsApp at +447766780300 or use our Secure Messaging service.
