The number of 16 to 24-year-olds who are not in education, employment or training has fallen below one million in the UK, according to figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS).
Between April and June 2026 there were 981,000, 30,000 fewer than in the previous three months. The rate fell from 13.5% to 13%. In a youth guarantee pilot programme in the East Midlands, 74% of participants moved into work, education or training.
A survey of young people in this situation found that 84% want to work, study or train. The ONS cautions that figures from a single quarter should be read with care, but the trend is encouraging.
