The Government’s Young People and Work Review, led by Alan Milburn, highlights the growing challenge of young people who are not in education, employment or training (NEET). Crucially, it recognises that this is not simply an issue of individual choice, but the result of wider systemic barriers preventing many young people from accessing good work.

Our analysis argues that the review also exposes another reality: the NEET crisis is increasingly a disability employment crisis.

Today, nearly half of all NEETs are disabled more than double the proportion a decade ago. Young people with a limiting disability are around 2.5 times more likely to become NEET, while mental health conditions, SEND and caring responsibilities all significantly increase the likelihood of being out of education, employment or training.

These findings reflect challenges disabled people experience throughout education and employment. Long-standing gaps in educational attainment, difficulties accessing appropriate support, and persistent barriers in the labour market continue to prevent many talented young disabled people from reaching their potential.

The review also reinforces something disabled people’s organisations have long argued: young disabled people want to work. Yet too often they face barriers rather than opportunities. This is why proven interventions such as Access to Work, alongside stronger employer incentives, improved occupational health provision and outcomes-focused employment support, must form part of the Government’s response.

The Milburn Review provides an important opportunity to rethink how disabled young people are supported into work. Addressing these barriers would not only improve individual life chances, but also strengthen the economy by enabling more people to contribute their skills and talents.