CYP Now - Poor mental health ‘primary driver’ for high NEET rates

Mental health challenges and lack of confidence are the “primary drivers” preventing young people from accessing work, education or training, according to a new report.

Care leavers are among groups most likely to be NEET, researchers warn. Picture: Adobe Stock

More than nine out of ten employability experts surveyed said mental health challenges are the main reason young people’s career progression is being stifled.

A similar proportion warn that lack of confidence is a major factor in high rates of young people not in employment, education or training (NEET).

The report has been published by the Employment Related Services Association (ERSA) and the Education Development Trust (EDT), which are calling for the government to target mental health funding at the NEET population. This should include improving access to private mental health support, such as talking therapies.

Other recommendations include investment in mentoring from peers from a similar background, which is backed by young people researchers spoke to.

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