The Greens and Reform are benefiting from young people receiving a 'raw deal'

"If I were in politics, I'd be alarmed by the looming demographic crisis," says a youth advocate. "Many people in their 20s and 30s have faced significant setbacks, and they're beginning to vote differently."

From the struggle to afford decent housing and manage student debt to securing meaningful employment, youth leaders warn the government must urgently address the severe challenges confronting young people. One of the most pressing concerns is that roughly one million young adults are not working, studying, or in training, labeled under the term NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training).

This is not a new issue. For years, ministers have promised bold measures to tackle this perceived waste of potential. However, with NEET numbers climbing and welfare debates intensifying, the political stakes appear to be rising. Recent polls show strong support for Reform and the Greens among voters under 30. Research by More in Common, which surveyed around 2,000 people in multiple polls this autumn, found Zack Polanski's Greens especially popular among young women. Among young men, the Greens and Nigel Farage's party both trail Labour by 10%, while Reform leads among men without university degrees.

Luke Tryl from More in Common observes, "It's no surprise that young voters are turning away from mainstream politics and seeking parties promising radical change, such as Reform and the Greens." He adds that mainstream parties risk losing these voters permanently if they assume they will naturally return as they age.

Some ministers acknowledge the issue openly. Josh Simons recently commented that life in the UK can feel difficult due to economic pressures and the high costs of raising children. Another cabinet member confirmed, "Young people are facing a raw deal, and youth unemployment is the top issue for their generation and their families."

Statistics underline the severity: between July and September, 946,000 young people aged 16-24 were not working or studyingover one in ten. Young men are disproportionately affected, especially in the North East and East of England. More than half report a health condition, and roughly 20% face mental health challenges.

Several factors contribute to economic inactivity among youth. Rising education costs, a stagnant labor market, pandemic disruptions, and increasing minimum wages have limited employment opportunities. Health and mental health challenges are also rising, with more young people reporting that these issues impede their work prospects.

Job insecurity is another concern. Young workers are nearly six times more likely to be on zero-hours contracts. The benefits system, while designed to support, can inadvertently discourage employment, prompting some to rely on welfare rather than seek unstable work. Initiatives like the "right to try" program allow young people to test jobs without losing income, aiming to reduce these barriers.

Government officials emphasize a balanced approach, rejecting overly paternalistic or dismissive views of youth on welfare. Nevertheless, with the growing number of NEETs and escalating welfare costs, the government faces political, financial, and ethical pressure to act. Former minister Alan Milburn is reviewing the situation, with findings expected next year.

In the meantime, the government plans to introduce the Youth Guarantee, ensuring paid work for young people who have been out of employment or education for 18 months. Pat McFadden will provide further details on its rollout. Some ministers worry the measures may not be ambitious enough, noting that systemic reforms are needed to address the underlying challenges facing young people.

A youth charity leader summarizes, "The country knows young people are being shortchanged, yet little is being done." While ministers dispute this, ignoring the issue could present both political risks and opportunities for those willing to tackle it head-on.

Author: Riley Thompson