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Employment, skills and economic security

Youth Index 2025

The King's Trust (formerly The Prince's Trust) · 2025

About this report

The King's Trust TK Maxx Youth Index 2025 is the 17th annual survey measuring the happiness and confidence of young people aged 16–25 across the UK. The report finds that NEET young people have the lowest overall wellbeing scores, with 50% feeling hopeless about their future, 53% feeling embarrassed about being out of work, and 30% having experienced a mental health problem due to unemployment. Young people from low-income backgrounds, those with no GCSEs, and those with a disability also report significantly lower wellbeing. Despite these pressures, 70% of young people feel determined to achieve their goals, and the majority see employment as key to stability, confidence and mental health.

Research details

Methodology
Survey
Sample size
4,285
Sample
UK young people aged 16–25, with subgroup analysis by NEET status, income background (free school meals), GCSE attainment, disability status, and gender.
Who it's about
NEET (not in education, employment or training)
Place
UK-wide
Youth involvement
No youth involvement
Funder
TK Maxx

Themes