September 2011 saw youth unemployment reach over 1 million, and with the latest gloomy figures of those Not in Employment, Education or Training (Neet), some commentators have described the youth of today as a ‘lost generation’.
Latest figures show 178,000 young people were classed as Neet, which recent press reports suggest is being blamed on the scrapping of the EMA. This is one percent higher than in 2010, and the worst since records began in 2000.
The government has fought back stating that £1 billion is being spent tackling the issue. Earlier this week Nick Clegg announced a new programme for 16 and 17 years olds aiming at getting more people involved in apprenticeships and providing skills employers are looking for.
The plan is for organisations with a track record of supporting young people to bid for contracts potentially worth up to £2,200 per individual. However, concerns have been raised that the scheme does not go far enough and success remains to be seen.