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NEETs Surge: 46% Disabled, Urgent Mental Health Support Needed

11/5/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Nearly 46% of 16- to 24-year-old NEETs are disabled, primarily due to mental health issues, a 24.3-point rise over the decade.
The Department for Work and Pensions reported 891,000 NEETs in 2024/2025, with 62% citing disability or ill-health as their main reason for not working.
Experts call for enhanced mental health support to help these individuals enter the workforce amid concerns about welfare-system sustainability.

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Story summary

Nearly 46% of 16- to 24-year-old NEETs are disabled, primarily due to mental health issues, a 24.3-point rise over the decade.
The Department for Work and Pensions reported 891,000 NEETs in 2024/2025, with 62% citing disability or ill-health as their main reason for not working.
Experts call for enhanced mental health support to help these individuals enter the workforce amid concerns about welfare-system sustainability.