A recent review led by former minister Alan Milburn has highlighted a severe decline in employment, education, and training opportunities for young people in the UK.

The report warns of a 'lost generation', with one in six young adults projected to be out of work or education within the next five years if action is not taken.

Official figures show over one million young people are currently classified as NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training), the highest level in over a decade.Entry-level and lower-skilled jobs have sharply decreased, with hospitality vacancies halving in the last four years.

The review cites multiple factors, including systemic inadequacies in education, health, and welfare systems, mental health challenges, and societal changes such as the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and increased reliance on digital interaction.Young jobseekers frequently face repeated rejection despite qualifications, leading to frustration and depression.

The estimated annual economic cost of nearly one million NEET individuals is £125 billion, factoring in lost productivity, future earnings, and increased public spending.

The government has pledged reforms including a Youth Jobs Grant and expanded apprenticeship opportunities, though critics argue that current policies are insufficient.Milburn’s review emphasises that structural changes are required to reinstate the social contract where effort leads to opportunity.