‘Bolder action needed on apprenticeships’ as Neets pass one million milestone, says the CIPD

In response to the Milburn Review interim report published today, Lizzie Crowley, senior skills adviser at the CIPD, the professional body for HR and people development, said: 
 

“Young people are desperate for an opportunity to prove themselves, but many are struggling to navigate a labour market where entry-level opportunities, work experience and structured progression routes have become harder to access.  

“Today’s Milburn Review findings and ONS figures highlight that much bolder action is needed to support youth employment given the collapse in the number of apprenticeships for 16-24 year olds and the general reduction in entry level roles.  

“With more than one million young people not in education, employment or training there’s a strong case to introduce an Apprenticeship Guarantee for all 16-24 year olds. CIPD research shows that nine in ten employers would support this and half say they would provide additional apprenticeship places over their existing provision if this were introduced. This would need backing from the UK Government and at regional and sector level. Without this level of ambition, there’s a real risk of a lost generation of young people.”  

The review’s findings reflect long-standing concerns about the mismatch between the skills employers need and those the education system is delivering. Crowley continues:  

“It’s been clear for some time that greater investment is needed in high-quality vocational and technical pathways, as well as stronger employer engagement in course design, and a joined-up workforce strategy linked to labour market demand and regulation. 

“While there needs to be a significant focus on improving apprenticeships and other vocational routes into work, the Government must also recognise the link between new measures in the Employment Rights Act 2025 and employers’ ability to invest in skill development and jobs for young people. For example, changes to the unfair dismissal qualifying period are likely to make employers more cautious about taking on young people whose potential is untested. They could also make it harder for organisations to extend probation periods if new starters need more time to improve.  

“It’s also important that proposed new requirements for minimum guaranteed hours for zero hours workers don’t discourage employers from providing these roles given they enable young people to balance studying while working. It’s crucial the Government is in listening mode and is prepared to compromise on these measures before they are finalised in secondary legislation, to ensure they don’t further restrict employment opportunities for young people.”