Much more needs to be done by the government to prevent a lost generation of young people, UNISON warned today.
As the latest statistics from the Department of Education revealed a small drop in the number of NEETS – young people not in employment, education or training – the UK’s largest union said that almost a fifth of 16-24 year olds in England were still being let down by the government.
Jon Richards, UNISON National Secretary, Education and Children’s Services said:
“A significant proportion of young people have been severely let down by this government; what awaits them leaving school is a tough jobs market or an education they can’t afford.
“These figures will no doubt be heralded as a success by the government, but this small reduction will be no comfort for the 17% of 16-24 year olds who are still out of work, education or training.
“Young people need options, but more than that they need hope. The government needs to have a hard look at its policies, and undo the damage they’ve done before we lose a generation for good.”
ENDS