The UK government has launched a powerful new programme designed to support young people aged 18 to 21 across England. With nearly a million youth currently not in education, employment, or training (NEET), the Youth Guarantee aims to ensure that everyone in this age group has the opportunity to either earn through a job or continue learning through education or training.
What Is the Youth Guarantee Scheme?
The Youth Guarantee is a £45 million investment led by Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall. This government-backed initiative is specifically targeted at those born between 2004 and 2007—young adults who are currently facing the risk of being left behind in the job market.
The main goal is simple but powerful: to ensure no young person is left out of opportunities. Whether through training, apprenticeships, work placements, or education, this scheme guarantees every 18 to 21-year-old a chance to move forward.
Why Was the Scheme Launched?
Recent statistics show that 987,000 young people across the UK are NEET. That’s nearly a million young adults not working or learning, with many struggling due to poor access to jobs, mental health support, or even basic tools like transport or a laptop.
The scheme was officially unveiled at Liverpool FC’s Anfield stadium. The event was attended by over 1,000 young people and representatives from big employers like Google, John Lewis, and Liverpool FC Foundation.
Where Is It Being Trialled?
To ensure the programme is effective and well-tested, the Youth Guarantee is being rolled out in eight regions across England:
Liverpool City Region
West Midlands
Tees Valley
East Midlands
West of England
Cambridgeshire & Peterborough
London (two pilot areas)
Each area will focus on helping local young people find jobs, receive mental health support, access free travel passes, and get into training programmes.
Real-Life Success Stories
At the launch in Liverpool, some early success stories highlighted the scheme’s potential:
Ethan, who has cerebral palsy, found a job in the Civil Service after receiving mental health and housing support.
Luke started a marketing apprenticeship at Liverpool FC.
Ellie got a work placement after being given a free laptop to support her studies.
These examples show how small but meaningful support can change lives.
BeMore Portal and Young People in Power
The BeMore portal is another feature of the scheme. It’s a mobile-first platform designed to give young people easy access to career advice and job opportunities. Described as “career advice straight in your pocket,” it’s part of the modern push to reach youth through tools they already use.
Additionally, a youth-led group will be involved in decision-making. This ensures the programme isn’t just for young people—it’s shaped by them too.
Support from Charities and Local Leaders
Steve Rotheram, Mayor of Liverpool City Region, emphasised that a lack of opportunity, not talent, has held back many young people. His region has received £5 million to lead on this new project.
Charities have also praised the scheme. Richard Rigby from The King’s Trust said it was “absolutely vital” with so many young people currently stuck in unemployment. Laura-Jane Rawlings MBE, from Youth Employment UK, pointed out that young people in care or with difficult backgrounds will especially benefit from the personalised support.
The £45 million Youth Guarantee is a bold and much-needed step to give young people in England a fair shot at success. Whether it’s a job, an apprenticeship, or continuing education, this programme focuses on preventing long-term unemployment among youth and breaking down barriers like lack of transport, mental health support, and digital access.
FAQs
What is the Youth Guarantee scheme?
The Youth Guarantee is a £45 million government-backed programme that ensures every 18 to 21-year-old in England has access to a job, training, or education. It aims to reduce youth unemployment and support those not in education, employment, or training (NEET).
Who is eligible for the Youth Guarantee programme?
Young people aged 18 to 21 in England, especially those born between 2004 and 2007, are eligible. The programme is targeted at those who are unemployed or not in education or training.
What support does the Youth Guarantee offer?
The programme offers access to jobs, apprenticeships, mental health services, free travel passes, work placements, and digital tools like laptops. It also includes career advice through the BeMore portal.
Where is the scheme being trialled?
The Youth Guarantee is being piloted in eight regions: Liverpool City Region, West Midlands, Tees Valley, East Midlands, West of England, Cambridgeshire & Peterborough, and two locations in London.
Will the scheme expand to Scotland or Wales?
The Youth Guarantee is currently only available in England. However, insights and results from the scheme will be shared with the devolved governments in Wales and Scotland to support similar initiatives.
