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Youth

Rising Youth Unemployment Linked to "Epidemic of Anxiety"

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Rising youth unemployment is a pressing issue in the UK, with charity Safe New Futures warning of an "epidemic of anxiety" among young people. The charity points to a vicious cycle of rejection and low self-esteem fueled by a tough job market, fewer entry-level roles, and the impact of automation and AI. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reports a rise in NEET figures among 16 to 24-year-olds, with an estimated 948,000 young people not in education, employment, or training between April and June.

Key Takeaways:

  • The charity Safe New Futures attributes rising youth unemployment to an "epidemic of anxiety" among young people, fueled by a tough job market and impact of automation and AI.
  • The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reports a rise in NEET figures among 16 to 24-year-olds, with an estimated 948,000 young people not in education, employment, or training between April and June.
  • Safe New Futures has supported 2,000 young people into work, education, or training over the past 20 years through its free Pathways programme, which offers coaching, forums, and networking to help young people gain confidence and skills.
  • One participant, 18-year-old Reece, describes how the programme helped him recover from setbacks and find employment, citing reduced anxiety and increased confidence.
  • Exam results can deepen feelings of failure and hopelessness among those already struggling, according to Safe New Futures CEO Nina Kelly.
  • The charity has received £300,000 from The National Lottery Community Fund to expand its Pathways programme and support more young people.

Statistics:

  • 948,000 young people not in education, employment, or training (NEET) between April and June (Office for National Statistics).
  • 923,000 young people not in education, employment, or training (NEET) in the first quarter of 2025 (Office for National Statistics).
  • 2,000 young people supported into work, education, or training by Safe New Futures over the past 20 years.
  • £300,000 received from The National Lottery Community Fund to expand Safe New Futures' Pathways programme.

Sources:

  • Office for National Statistics (ONS)
  • Safe New Futures
  • The National Lottery Community Fund

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