‘Heartbreaking’ review can be a catalyst for young people

The principal of East Lancashire Learning Group hopes a new national review into youth inactivity can act as a ‘catalyst’ for change to help future generations.

The Young People and Work report, led by former health secretary Alan Milburn, has warned that the number of young people not in education, employment or training (NEET) could increase without urgent reform across education, employment, health and support services.

The report shows almost one million young people currently classified as not in education, employment or training.

Lisa O’Loughlin, chief executive of East Lancashire Learning Group, was involved in the report’s development, shaping and informing its findings as a member of the expert panel, ensuring that the voice of further education and frontline delivery was reflected. 

Among its findings, the report warns that without decisive action, the proportion of young people who are NEET could rise from one in eight to one in six within five years. 

It also challenges the misconception that young people do not want to work, finding that 84 per cent of those who are NEET are actively seeking employment, education or training opportunities. 

Lisa said: “Reading the findings of Alan Milburn’s Young People and Work report is truly heartbreaking.

“Having been involved in the review itself, I have seen first-hand the tireless commitment and best efforts of schools, colleges, local authorities, safeguarding teams, health professionals and wider agencies working every day to support young people.

“Yet despite that dedication, it is deeply concerning that too many young people are still being let down by a system that, too often, struggles to provide the joined-up support they need at the moment they need it most. 

“This review matters because it confronts some difficult truths with honesty and purpose.

“It recognises the complexity of the challenges facing vulnerable young people whilst setting out clear recommendations that have the potential to drive meaningful, lasting change. 

“At East Lancashire Learning Group, we see every day the life-changing difference that trusted relationships, timely intervention and genuinely collaborative support can make.

“I am incredibly proud to have contributed to this important work and sincerely hope that it becomes a catalyst for stronger partnerships, better joined-up working and, ultimately, better outcomes for the young people who rely on us all to get this right.”