The latest figures from the Department for Education show that the NEET (not in education, employment or training) population in England has hit a five-year peak of 979,000.

Youth unemployment is a persistent, concerning and complex problem. It can cause a downward spiral of anxiety, frustration and depression for an individual, increasing their risk of ill-health, social exclusion and substance abuse. We also know that it correlates with higher levels of dependence in later life, stifling more meaningful levels of social or economic contribution. This is a problem that has been too significant for too long.