US EditionYoung people to lose benefits if they turn down work, says minister
The UK government will fund 350,000 training placements and guarantee 55,000 jobs in high-need areas to support nearly one million young people on Universal Credit.
- Last month, the UK government unveiled an £820m package to tackle rising youth unemployment, funding 350,000 training placements and guaranteeing 55,000 government-backed jobs from spring 2026.
- Amid rising NEET figures, almost 946,000 16-24-year-olds are classed as NEET, driven by economic factors, sickness and disability trends, Office for National Statistics figures show.
- The programme will deliver practical support by design, offering 900,000 Universal Credit claimants a support session, four weeks of intensive help, six pathways, and expanded Youth Hubs.
- The DWP warned claimants refusing offers without good reason may face benefit cuts, and McFadden said `Doing nothing should not be an option`.
- Further plans will be set out in the coming week with a national youth strategy, and an Alan Milburn review will shape health and welfare reforms, supported by Budget commitments for under‑25 apprenticeship training at SMEs.
22 Articles
22 Articles
Unemployed young people to lose benefits if they refuse work
The Work and Pensions Secretary, Pat McFadden, has unveiled new plans aimed at tackling rising youth unemployment. Under the “youth guarantee” proposals, young people on benefits will be offered job opportunities in sectors including construction and hospitality. The government says the initiative is designed to give thousands a clearer route into long-term work.
Britain's 'Lost Generation': £820m Rescue Plan Aims to Help 1 Million Young People
Nearly one million young individuals in the UK are now identified as not in education, employment, or training (NEET), according to the latest figures released by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). This alarming trend has led to increased concern nationwide. In response, the government unveiled an £820 million initiative to prevent what ministers describe as a potential 'lost generation'. Recent data indicates a 26% rise in young people…
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