“We welcome the government’s £820 million funding package to create new training and workplace opportunities for young people and expand Youth Hubs across Great Britain. This is an important step in tackling the sharp rise in young people not in education, employment, or training (NEET) since the pandemic.
“We also welcome the introduction of improved attendance tracking and early-warning systems, which will help identify young people at risk of dropping out and enable timely intervention. In addition, the commitment to guarantee a further education place for young people without a post-16 destination is a positive move that will help ensure continuity of learning and prevent young people from falling through the gaps.
“However, these measures must be part of a joined-up approach with schools, colleges, and training providers to ensure equitable allocation of student places and smooth transitions, both into post-16 education and into employment. We also call for wider systemic support for 16-19 year olds, including improved access to mental health services, secure housing, and affordable transport, which are critical to enabling participation in education and training.
“We look forward to working with the government on the forthcoming National Youth Strategy to ensure every young person has the opportunity to thrive.”