Young people and work: next steps - CPAG briefing

The Young people and work: interim report draws attention to the concerning number of young people not in education, employment and training. 

In our briefing, we look at the importance of investment in a strong and adequate social security system, alongside employment support, in securing better futures for children and young people. 

Key points

• child poverty is a key long-term driver of young people not being in education, employment or training
• young people not in education, employment and training need urgent support
• preventive action must be taken to reduce the levels of child poverty which drives this loss of potential
• we recommend boosting household incomes through sustained investment in child related benefits
• our analysis of the data shows that health-related benefits do not influence whether young people join the labour market
• young people need effective employment support to complement an adequate social security system