The weekly headlines on the rising NEET numbers show the need for bolder solutions. We talk of a million young people 'falling through the cracks'. Within that group is a rising subset that current policy considerations and investment are unlikely to reach. Yes, removing the minimum wage rises will help those actively seeking work. And, closer working between schools, local authorities and other parts of the system will prevent more from becoming NEET. But, what of those who are already disengaged and overlooked? Especially 18–24-year-olds reporting more ill health, including anxiety and depression?
The proportion of NEETs sidelined by ill health has nearly doubled since 2005. Around 200,000 are now economically inactive for health-related reasons. Not mandated to look for jobs, they often don't receive work-related support and are not eligible for the Job Guarantee. They've become 'hard to find and engage' or 'too hard to reach'. Yet, leaving this cohort behind is not only a social failure – it's a long-term fiscal risk. Local Authorities are already feeling the pressure. We cannot afford to ignore this structural shift, nor the mounting taxpayer burden and future generational impact.
