Surge in Young Men Not in Work or Education as Female Employment Improves

The number of young men in the United Kingdom not in employment, education, or training has risen sharply, intensifying concerns about a growing divide between the economic fortunes of young men and women. Newly published data from the Office for National Statistics reveals that in the three months leading up to September, 512,000 young men were classified as NEET, representing a 3 percent rise of 15,000 compared to the previous quarter. In contrast, the number of young women in this category has fallen to 434,000, a decrease of 16,000 or 3.8 percent.

This disparity is partly attributed to a greater availability of jobs within sectors that predominantly hire women, such as social care and education. At the same time, entry-level vacancies across all industries have dropped to a five-year low, according to figures from Adzuna, presenting additional challenges for young people, especially men, seeking work.

The overall total of 16 to 24-year-olds in the NEET category now stands at 946,000, virtually unchanged from the previous quarter. Only 25 percent of these young people are currently supported by Jobcentre Plus in their search for work, and youth apprenticeship participation remains low by international comparison. Analysts warn that each young person without employment, education, or training represents lost potential and a drag on national productivity.

The government has responded to this crisis by announcing an independent inquiry, led by former health secretary Alan Milburn, to investigate the root causes of youth worklessness. A significant proportion of young male NEETs—approximately 274,000—are economically inactive, neither seeking nor available for work, while the remainder are actively seeking jobs in a difficult labour market.

Recent policy changes, including increased National Insurance contributions for employers and a rise in the minimum wage, have reduced recruitment, disproportionately affecting those under 25. According to HM Revenue and Customs, payrolled employment among under-25s has dropped by 44,000 since the previous autumn budget.

A government review led by Sir Charlie Mayfield highlighted the long-term cost to individuals who lose work early due to health problems, estimating that a 22-year-old in such circumstances could be over £1 million worse off across their lifetime. In light of persistent youth worklessness, the government is launching the Youth Guarantee, mandating that 18 to 21-year-olds who remain out of work for 18 months must accept a paid job or risk losing benefits. However, economists caution that the scheme may only reach a small fraction of those in need.

Policy experts and officials stress the urgency of comprehensive labour market reforms, including the expansion of mental health support and targeted measures to reduce employment costs for young workers. The Work and Pensions Secretary has reiterated the commitment to address the high rate of youth NEETs by providing greater access to education, training, apprenticeships, and, ultimately, guaranteed employment.