UK GOVERNMENT TO TACKLE RISING YOUTH UNEMPLOYMENT – The £820m plan may see those who refuse job offers face sanctions on financial support
The UK government has announced a major new strategy to tackle rising youth unemployment, backed by an £820 million funding package that will connect young benefit recipients with jobs in key sectors.
Under the plan, young people who refuse job offers or decline engagement with support programs without a valid reason could face sanctions on their financial support.
The initiative aims to halt the surge in youth unemployment—which currently stands at its highest level since the Covid-19 period—and increase the workforce.
The reasons for the unemployment spike are attributed to a weak economy, increased minimum wage costs, tax hikes on businesses, and a rising number of young people claiming benefits due to mental ill health and disability.
The £820 million investment will fund extensive training and work experience for 350,000 young people currently on Universal Credit in sectors facing high demand, including construction, hospitality and Health and Social Care.
