02 November 2025
Resolution Foundation analysis of the NEET problem across the UK
The Resolution Foundation has published a briefing note analysing the high level of young people who are not in education, employment or training (NEET) in the UK, with nearly one million 16-24-year-olds currently in this group.
It found that most NEET young people aren’t actively seeking work – classed as economically inactive – and 28% cite disability or health conditions as being the reason they are outside learning or work. However, out-of-work benefit claims among young people are rising and Universal Credit claims have risen 24%. Yet 44% don’t engage with the benefits system.
Lower-qualified young people have the highest NEET rates, with those only holding up to GCSE-level qualifications being three times more likely to be NEET than graduates.
Read the full Resolution Foundation NEET briefing.
It found that most NEET young people aren’t actively seeking work – classed as economically inactive – and 28% cite disability or health conditions as being the reason they are outside learning or work. However, out-of-work benefit claims among young people are rising and Universal Credit claims have risen 24%. Yet 44% don’t engage with the benefits system.
Lower-qualified young people have the highest NEET rates, with those only holding up to GCSE-level qualifications being three times more likely to be NEET than graduates.
Read the full Resolution Foundation NEET briefing.
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