Cut benefits to fund work support for young people, says Neet review author Alan Milburn
Summary
Alan Milburn, a former health secretary, suggests cutting welfare payments to fund more job support programs for young people not in work, education, or training (called Neets). He says this issue is linked to both unemployment and mental health, and current government systems do not support these young people well.Key Facts
- Around 1 million young people aged 18-24 in the UK are classified as Neet (not in education, employment, or training).
- 60% of these young people have never had a job.
- Milburn says the problem is more than just unemployment; it is a "youth detachment" issue tied to poor mental health.
- He recommends shifting money from welfare benefits to programs that help young people find jobs.
- The government delayed publishing Milburn’s full report until after the budget announcement.
- Chancellor John Healey plans to fund some youth employment programs, like a £100 million local apprenticeship service.
- Milburn and mental health expert Peter Fonagy say that employment, health, and welfare support should work together better to help young people.
- Fonagy highlights rising mental health problems among young people and recommends support focused on their potential, not just disabilities.
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