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UK Youth Employment Drops Amid Rising Costs, Mental Health Crisis

3/17/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Young worker employment in the UK (ages 16-24) fell by 1.8% in February.
The national living wage will rise to £12.25 per hour in April, increasing employer costs.
Many SMEs are opting to absorb workloads rather than hire, due to higher national insurance contributions.
Economic inactivity hit a record 9.4 million, with mental health issues highlighted as a significant concern.

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Story summary

Young worker employment in the UK (ages 16-24) fell by 1.8% in February.
The national living wage will rise to £12.25 per hour in April, increasing employer costs.
Many SMEs are opting to absorb workloads rather than hire, due to higher national insurance contributions.
Economic inactivity hit a record 9.4 million, with mental health issues highlighted as a significant concern.