Young People Urged Back Into Work As Government Pauses Welfare Reform Plans

Too many young people are falling out of employment and losing touch with the world of work, according to Pat McFadden, the new Secretary of State for Work and Pensions. In a recent statement, McFadden signalled a shift in focus for the government away from immediate welfare cutbacks and towards helping the under 25s reintegrate into the jobs market.

McFadden’s move into the role comes after his predecessor’s attempt to introduce major welfare savings met stiff resistance in parliament. Despite calls from some quarters to reform sickness and disability benefits amidst rising numbers of new claimants, McFadden has clearly set his initial priority elsewhere. With almost a million young people currently neither in work nor education, the minister expressed growing concern about long-term disengagement from employment among this group.

“The big danger is if young people get out of the habit and the pattern of work as they’re leaving school, then it might be hard to get them back in, in the future,” he told Times Radio. “That’s my early priority.” Emphasising the social and financial importance of regular employment, he added that helping young people secure jobs would not only improve opportunity, but also reduce the strain on public finances over time.

While government data shows thousands beginning claims for disability and incapacity benefits each week, McFadden made clear he will not set arbitrary targets for welfare spending reductions, nor will he pursue rapid, top-down reforms. Instead, a review of the Personal Independence Payment system will be conducted, with potential changes postponed until autumn 2026, pending a report led by disability minister Sir Stephen Timms and feedback from advocacy groups.

Official figures reveal a persistent high in long-term sickness and mental health issues cited as prime reasons for economic inactivity among working-age people. McFadden asserted that employment remains a positive force, even for those with health conditions, provided the right support is in place. “Having a mental health condition in itself isn’t assumed to be a barrier to work in all circumstances,” he explained.

Industry experts such as the Learning and Work Institute agree that genuine progress depends on expanded employment support, especially for those with health conditions wishing to return to work. With sustainable solutions the new minister’s stated goal, the government’s approach to welfare reform now looks set to be more measured and focused on youth engagement in employment.