- Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden is set to announce a £1 billion package on Monday, aiming to create 200,000 jobs and incentivise employers to hire young people.
- The initiative seeks to reverse the increasing number of 'Neets' – young people not in education, employment or training.
- Key measures include a new Youth Jobs Grant offering businesses £3,000 for hiring 18-24 year olds unemployed for six months, and a £2,000 apprenticeship incentive for small and medium-sized businesses hiring 16-24 year olds.
- The existing jobs guarantee, providing a six-month role for Universal Credit claimants unemployed for 18 months, will be expanded to include those up to 24 years old.
- The plan has garnered support from Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and chef Tom Kerridge, but faces criticism from the Conservative opposition, who argue it will hinder job creation.
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