Learning and Work Institute · 2025
This report examines how the UK benefits system interacts with the government's Youth Guarantee in England, which aims to support 18–21-year-olds who are NEET into work or training. Using data analysis of DWP benefits data, desk research, stakeholder interviews, and focus groups with young people, the report finds that over 880,000 16–24-year-olds in England claim benefits, with significant geographic variation and a sharp post-pandemic rise in health-related claims. It identifies key challenges—including stigma, inflexibility, inadequate financial support, and poor integration between Jobcentre Plus and local partners—and makes detailed recommendations to reform the system so it better supports young people's pathways to sustainable employment.