Less than half of young people participating in two government-backed youth schemes in London have progressed into further education, employment, or training, according to new data. The £20m Youth Guarantee Trailblazer scheme supported 2,600 young Londoners, but only 1,100 of them moved into these opportunities.
Former youth worker and Conservative peer Shaun Bailey described the scheme as a "failure" and advocated for increased support for employers. In contrast, Skills Minister Jacqui Smith stated that the scheme is assisting young people furthest from the labour market and that it is still "early days."
The Greater London Authority (GLA) leads these projects, which are funded by over £20m in government money across London. The schemes offer various types of support, including access to mental health services, work experience, and mentoring. The programme is scheduled to run until the end of March 2027.
A report by former minister Alan Milburn is anticipated next week, which is expected to propose solutions for this issue. London is one of eight Youth Guarantee Trailblazer areas in England exploring ways to help young people not in employment, education, or training (Neet).