New figures out today show an overall drop in the number of young people jobless and not in education, but a slight rise among young women.  

The official figures, which cover January to March 2025, estimate there were 923,000 people aged 16-24 classed as “not in education, employment or training” (NEET). The represents an overall drop of 7,000 on the same period last year.  

This breaks down as a decrease of 26,000 young men but, worryingly, an increase among young women of 19,000 from the previous year. 

The total accounts for around 1 in 8 young people. 

Earlier this week, new research revealed how certain groups of young people are more at risk of being out of work or education. The study, by the youth charity Impetus, revealed a postcode lottery across England.     

Generally, areas with a higher risk of being “not in education, employment or training” (NEET) are in the North of England and the Midlands.  

NEET rates are highest in the North East of England at 15.1% of young people, which contrasts with 9.4% in the South West of England. 

The study also revealed that those with fewer than five GCSEs are 75% more likely to be jobless and not in education than average. And if they also come from a poorer background, they’re around 130% more likely than the average. 

The government has proposed a “Youth Guarantee” to give those aged 18-21 access to training, an apprenticeship, or support to find work. 

The UK could add £69 billion to the economy if it could reduce youth unemployment to levels achieved in the Netherlands – to around 5% – according to one estimate by the Youth Employment Group, a coalition of organisations which support young people. 

The youth employability charity Resurgo supports young people at 17 Spear Centres across England and Wales. 

Spear trainee John had been placed in foster care as a child. He got into drink and drugs and couldn’t see a future. After four years, John decided to make a change and his social worker suggested trying Spear in Leeds. John now works as a caretaker at a school. 

“Before Spear, I didn’t do anything. I didn’t see the point of talking to anyone. It gave me the strength and energy to…get a job and do well.” 

Resurgo CEO Iona Ledwidge said: 

“Since we started running the Spear Programme, we have worked with over 11,000 young people facing barriers to work. Of those who complete the programme, we have seen 75% move into education, employment or training and remain there a year later; evidence that we know our approach works.  

“Last year, we opened two new Spear centres – one in Hastings and another in Gateshead. This year, we are launching two more, at St Helens in Merseyside, and in York. We have ambitious plans to continue expanding, helping more young people into work or education – and we’re committed to walking with each trainee every step of the way.”  

You can find out more about Spear, or apply to join the Spear Programme on a course near you, on the Resurgo website, where you can also read the stories of young people who’ve got onto the career ladder even after facing huge barriers to work.