Today’s figures for the number of young people neither earning nor learning represent a vast array of untapped talent.
The official figures, which cover January to March 2025, estimate there were 923,000 people aged 16-24 classed as “not in education, employment or training” (NEET).
That’s:
1 in 8 young people not realising their potential
An overall drop of 7,000 on the previous year – but an increase of 19,000 young women
The UK could add £69 billion to the economy if it could reduce youth unemployment to levels achieved in the Netherlands – to around 5% - according to one estimate by the Youth Employment Group, a coalition of organisations which support young people.
Resurgo supports young people at 17 Spear Centres across England and Wales. So far, we’ve supported over 11,000 young people facing barriers to work. Of those who complete the Spear Programme, 75% move into education, employment or training and are still there a year later.
Spear trainee John had been placed in foster care as a child. He got into drink and drugs and couldn’t see a future. After four years, John decided to make a change and his social worker suggested trying Spear in Leeds. John now works as a caretaker at a school.
“Before Spear, I didn’t do anything. I didn’t see the point of talking to anyone. It gave me the strength and energy to…get a job and do well.”
Resurgo CEO Iona Ledwidge said:
“Last year, we opened two new Spear centres - one in Hastings and another in Gateshead. This year, we are launching two more, at St Helens in Merseyside, and in York. We have ambitious plans to continue expanding, helping more young people into work or education - and we’re committed to walking with each trainee every step of the way.”