Are mental health concerns being used as an excuse for youth unemployment?

Are mental health concerns being used as an excuse for youth unemployment?

The number of 16-24 year-olds in the UK who are not in education, employment or training (NEET) has reached the highest level in 12 years. 60% of all NEETs haven’t ever had a job. And this comes with implications for taxpayers, an estimated £125 billion a year.

The Department for Work and Pension’s independent review of the issue has been led by Alan Milburn, concluding that the rises have been caused by the changing nature of work opportunities (the impact of technologies such as AI) and the ‘epidemic’ of mental health issues among younger people. A ‘solutions’ report is expected this year.

Worries about the work ethic

The review has included evidence from employers that suggests a lack of drive and initiative among young people. There can be a low number of applicants for less attractive role, many no-shows for interviews (including for apprenticeships and training roles), and in general, more young people who are willing to point to mental health issues when faced with work demands and issues of performance.

As a result, there is criticism among commentators of how school education and the wider culture has focused on wellbeing at the expense of resilience and the work ethic.

Work for wellbeing

EAPA UK chair, Karl Bennett said: “Rather than a problem for organisations, the issue of youth unemployment is an opportunity. We know that being in work is the foundation for good mental health for the great majority of employees. It means a basis of financial security, a sense of purpose and belonging, challenges and rewards and friendships as a daily routine.

“There are always going to be trade-offs between those benefits and the pressures involved with workplaces and meeting the demands and expectations that come with them — but good employers are able to get the balance right, through thoughtful job design, management practices and attention to health and wellbeing in general as part of the deal.

“The issue of NEETs is the chance for employers to make this case and to demonstrate how much they do for the health of the nation and for those people, whatever age they might be, who are willing to take on challenges and responsibilities.”