Youth Guarantee
Unlocking Opportunities for Young People in England
Across the UK, a significant number of young people are struggling to access education, employment, or training. Recent data indicates that around one in eight individuals aged 16–24 (approximately 957,000 young people) fall into this category, often referred to as NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training).
To address this challenge, the government has introduced a major investment in youth employment, with the Youth Guarantee forming a central part of its strategy. This initiative aims to ensure every young person has access to opportunities that support their development, skills, and future career prospects.
What is the Youth Guarantee?
The Youth Guarantee is a commitment to ensure that all young people have access to:
- Quality education and training pathways
- Employment opportunities
- Personalised support and careers guidance
- Skills development relevant to today’s job market
It is part of a broader effort led by Skills England to build a workforce that meets the needs of a modern, evolving economy while giving young people a clear route into meaningful careers.
How Employers are supported to get involved
- 25 hours per week, paid at National
Minimum Wage for six months - Pre-employment support to prepare
the young person before they start - Provide real work experience that
builds future careers - Hiring a young person can bring
fresh skills and extra capacity to
your team - Ongoing in-work support for both
the employer and the young person