Breaking the cycle: addressing the NEET crisis
Tuesday 7th October 2025
18:00 – 19:00
RSA House and online via YouTube
Over 13% of 16-24-year-olds in the UK are now classified as NEET - not in education, employment or training - with a growing number also economically inactive and disengaged from the workforce altogether. This crisis is costing the UK economy billions in lost productivity and social support, while placing young people at greater risk of poor mental health, lifelong unemployment, and social exclusion.
What’s driving this troubling trend? From falling apprenticeship opportunities and rising school exclusions to an overstretched mental health system and declining entry-level jobs, the challenges are complex and urgent.
A panel of leading voices is coming together at RSA House to unpack the root causes of rising NEET rates and outline what cross-sector collaboration can do to build real opportunity for a generation at risk.
Speakers:
- Dr Vikki Smith, Executive Director, Education and Standards at the Education and Training Foundation (ETF)
- Mo Isap, CEO of IN4 Group
Chair:
- Dr Patrina Law, Lifelong Learning Lead at the RSA
*Please note this event will be held at RSA House as well as streamed online - please ensure that you register for the correct ticket type to avoid disappointment*
