UK youth unemployment rise linked to homelessness, charities state
The Story
Charities have reported that the growing number of young people not in work or education is driving more into unstable housing or homelessness. A government-commissioned review warns that without intervention, the number of young people not in education, employment, or training (Neet) could rise by 25% to 1.25 million by the early 2030s. Alan Milburn, the review’s author, said the “instability of worklessness” increases the risk of homelessness. Official figures show almost 124,000 young people were homeless or at risk of homelessness in 2024-25, a 6% increase from the previous year. The Big Issue reported a 60% rise in vendors aged 18-24, from 449 to 720, since 2022. Young people like Josh and Faye described difficulties finding jobs and housing despite numerous applications. Charities noted that public discussion often blames young people, but argued that young people cannot create jobs and face a shortage of opportunities.
Key Facts
- Charities said the rising number of young people not in work or education is driving more into unstable housing or homelessness.
- A government-commissioned review forecasts a 25% rise in Neets to 1.25 million by the early 2030s if no action is taken.
- Almost 124,000 young people in the UK were homeless or at risk of homelessness in 2024-25, a 6% year-on-year increase.
- The Big Issue noted a 60% increase in vendors aged 18-24 since 2022, from 449 to 720.
- The UK youth unemployment rate is 14.7%, its highest in more than a decade.
- Britain has the third-highest rate among wealthy European countries of 16- to 24-year-olds who are neither earning nor learning.
- Josh, 23, described applying for hundreds of jobs while living in supported housing from Centrepoint.
- Faye, 22, a care leaver, has been on a waiting list for a social home for over a year despite high-priority status.
Conflicting Reports
No conflicting reports identified in the source article.
Still Unclear
No open questions identified in the source article.
Misconceptions
The article reports that some public discussion blames young people for unemployment, but charities state that young people cannot create jobs and are facing a shortage of opportunities.
Key Figures
- Alan Milburn, author of the government-commissioned review
- Lisa Doyle, head of policy and public affairs at Centrepoint
- John Bird, founder of the Big Issue and crossbench peer
- Josh, 23-year-old in supported housing
- Faye, 22-year-old aspiring photographer
Sources: The Guardian
