- New analysis reveals a significant increase in young people aged 16 to 24 citing health problems as a reason for being out of work.
- The proportion of 16 to 24-year-olds not in education, employment, or training (Neet) reporting work-limiting health conditions has surged by 70 per cent over the last decade, rising from 26 per cent to 44 per cent.
- Mental health problems and autism accounted for over two-thirds of these health-related barriers to employment among Neet individuals last year.
- Experts warn this trend jeopardises young people's future opportunities and call for greater prevention, practical support, and timely clinical care to address the root causes of ill-health.
- The government has pledged almost £1 billion in additional investment and a further £3.5 billion by the end of the decade to support young people with health conditions into the workplace.
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