The number of 18 to 24-year-olds across England not in employment, education or training (or ‘Neet’) has risen to 18.4%, figures from the Department of Education suggest.

These figures represent the highest level for the second quarter of the year since records were first taken in 2006. The previous high was in 2008, when the level was 17.6%. This figures increases further for those aged 19 to 24-years-old, with 19.1% considered ‘Neet’. 

Paul Davis, managing director of Perspective, said: “It is worrying that the number of young people not in employment, education or training is continuing to rise. It is imperative that young people look to find training or education where possible to enhance their chances of furthering their employment prospects in later life. What’s more, with youth unemployment having risen in the quarter to June, young people should take note of this increase and look to continue education or training to ensure they don’t become ‘Neet’ themselves.” 

However, the proportion of young people aged 16 to 18 considered ‘Neet’ has fallen to 9.8% in the second quarter of 2011, down from 10.2% in the same period last year. A recent drive by the government to encourage young people to stay in education or training is the likely cause of this drop in 16 to 18 ‘Neets’.