YMCA Response to Milburn Report

Denise Hatton, Chief Executive, YMCA England & Wales, said:

“The figures released today are stark. Sadly however, they will not come as a surprise to organisations working directly with young people today, and align with YMCA’s own research conducted as part of our submission to the Milburn review.

“Across England and Wales, YMCA programmes are seeing growing numbers of young people struggling to access stable employment, training opportunities and the support they need to move forward with confidence, often due to leaving school without the relevant skills, knowledge or career advice.

“Too often, young people are locked out of opportunities, not because they lack ambition, but because the systems around them fail to keep pace with the challenges they face. As emphasised in YMCA’s submission, we see first-hand that rising mental health concerns, insecure housing, financial pressures, long waiting lists for support services and fewer entry-level opportunities are all contributing to this crisis.

“We must move away from outdated and damaging stereotypes around youth unemployment. The overwhelming majority of young people want to work, learn and contribute to society, but too many are facing barriers beyond their control.

“What is needed now is a genuinely joined-up national response that brings together employment support, mental health provision, housing, youth services and skills training. Young people need consistent support, trusted relationships and clear pathways into good-quality opportunities, such as building connections with local employers and community networks.

“At YMCA, we know all too well the difference that early intervention, youth work, mentoring, and practical employability programmes can make. Last year alone, YMCA supported more than 23,000 people through training and education programmes and provided work experience, apprenticeships and employment support to thousands more across England and Wales.

“If we are serious about tackling the escalating NEET crisis, let this report serve as a sober warning. Investment in young people cannot be viewed as optional. It is essential not only for their futures, but for the long-term social and economic health of the country.”