Thousands of vulnerable teenagers across the UK are at risk of falling through the cracks, with local authorities often lacking crucial information about whether young people are engaged in education, employment, or training. New data highlights a significant discrepancy in tracking these individuals, with 32,100 young people, dubbed 'Phantom NEETs', currently unaccounted for by councils. This figure contributes to an estimated 57,000 16 and 17-year-olds officially classified as not being in education, employment, or training (NEET).
The disparity in data collection is stark, revealing a postcode lottery across the country. For instance, North Lincolnshire Council reports missing information for nearly half of its 16 and 17-year-olds, while four other councils claim to know the whereabouts of all their young people in this age bracket. This inconsistency underscores the urgent need for a more unified and effective approach to tracking and supporting vulnerable teenagers.
In response, the government is stepping up its efforts to assist councils in identifying and intervening earlier with young people at risk. Building on recommendations from the Milburn Review, new tools and guidance are being rolled out. This includes the Risk of NEET Indicator (RONI) tool, which integrates factors such as poor school attendance, special educational needs, and care experience to flag at-risk individuals sooner. Additionally, new guidance for schools and colleges is being published today, aiming to equip staff with better methods to identify and support those most likely to disengage.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has written to all councils outlining expectations for improved identification and support. A separate letter is being sent to 26 councils facing the most significant challenges, where 3% or more of teenagers' activities are unknown. These councils will work on improvement plans over the next six months, supported by the new resources. Ms Phillipson emphasised that accurate tracking is not a mere administrative task, but a critical factor in ensuring young people receive timely support rather than being left behind.
This initiative forms part of a broader government drive to boost youth employment, backed by a substantial £2.5 billion investment in reforms. These reforms aim to support almost one million young people and create up to 500,000 opportunities for earning and learning. Key measures include a new £2,000 incentive for small businesses that take on a 16-24 year old apprentice, designed to remove barriers to accessing life-changing courses. Furthermore, from Autumn 2026, the Jobs Guarantee scheme will expand to offer all eligible 18- to 24-year-olds on Universal Credit, who have been looking for work for 18 months, 25 hours per week of fully subsidised six-month paid work at the relevant minimum wage, alongside comprehensive support.