THE recently-published Milburn Review, commissioned by the Government, found that over one million young people – one in eight – are currently not in education, employment or training.
The review warns that without urgent action, that number could rise to 1.25 million within five years, and that the systems meant to support young people – across education, health and the labour market – are failing to work together.
I’m pushing for its upcoming recommendations to address not only those already not in education, employment or training (NEET), but those most at risk of falling through the cracks.
Speaking in the House of Commons, I called on the work and pensions minister to confirm that the next phase of Alan Milburn’s work considers early intervention – using the risk factors identified in the interim report to support young people before they become NEET, not only after.
He responded positively, agreeing that the review must look beyond immediate interventions to long-term structural solutions, and expressing his hope that it brings forward recommendations that address the root causes of the problem.
The Government has committed £2.5 billion to a youth employment support package, including the creation of 300,000 new work experience and training placements in sectors including construction, health and social care, and hospitality. The package accelerates the Youth Guarantee – giving every young person the chance to earn or learn – and includes a £3,000 Youth Jobs Grant and 50,000 additional youth apprenticeships.
Alan Milburn’s interim report is nothing short of totemic. It sets out with real clarity the scale of the challenge we face and the risk factors that push and keep young people out of education, employment and training.
I’m glad the minister confirmed that short-term fixes won’t be enough – this is a structural problem that needs a structural solution.
I want to make sure that young people across the Filton and Bradley Stoke constituency have the support and opportunities they need to thrive and will keep pushing for this.
Opportunities should be open to all ages, and I was delighted to see SGS and UWE among the first institutions approved to offer flexible, bite-sized courses through our Government’s new ‘Lifelong Learning Entitlement’.
Continuing my push for improved SEND support, I met with the Schools Minister again to share local feedback and to ask local parents’ questions.
I also sat down with the Technology Secretary and Online Safety Minister to share local views on social media access for under-16s, ahead of the policy announcement.
Last month, my team and I worked on 549 new cases for residents, including working with the council, a housing association and the police to secure priority housing for a local family who urgently needed it.
I held my advice surgery in Emersons Green, hosted ‘Coffee with Claire’ in Bradley Stoke and ‘Pub Politics’ at Frenchay’s fantastic White Lion pub. These events are invaluable for hearing directly from fellow residents.
South Gloucestershire Armed Forces Day was a powerful celebration of service. Coming from an RAF family, I’m proud our Armed Forces Bill will give those who serve a legal entitlement to the housing, healthcare and education they deserve. Thank you to all involved.
Please get in touch with me anytime at claire.hazelgrove.mp@parliament.uk.