New Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) research with 417 young people aged 16–24 who were not in education, employment or training (NEET) found 84% wanted to move into work, education or training, with employment the most common aspiration.

Despite these aspirations, young people reported significant barriers including poor health, disability, limited work experience and a lack of suitable opportunities. Almost half (46%) reported having a diagnosed mental health or neurodevelopmental condition.

Many were critical of their experience of education: 81% felt there was too much focus on exams, while 67% said the education system did not adequately prepare young people for work. More than half (55%) felt the education system did not suit people like them.

Young people also highlighted difficulties entering the labour market, including competition for jobs, limited entry-level opportunities and employers requiring previous experience. 38% had never undertaken paid work, while 35% had been out of education for more than two years.

Respondents called for more personalised careers and employment support, better health and wellbeing services and greater access to entry-level jobs, apprenticeships and work experience.