Employment: Young People

With around one million young people not in education, employment and training, this Government will not leave an entire generation of young people behind. The Government is investing an additional £2.5 billion by 2029 into the Youth Guarantee and the Growth and Skills Levy.

This investment will support almost one million young people and create up to 500,000 opportunities to earn and learn, including through expanded network of Youth Hubs, earlier intensive support in Jobs Centres through a new Youth Guarantee Gateway, additional work experience and training opportunities, a £3,000 Youth Jobs Grant and £2,000 apprenticeship hiring payment for employers, and a fully funded six month job for long-term unemployed 18–24-year-olds.

In Newcastle-under-Lyme, young people can access DWP-funded programmes delivered through local authorities, including Connect to Work. This programme is delivered by Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council, the Growth Company and local voluntary organisations. It offers personalised support to help people overcome barriers to work, build skills and confidence, and move into jobs, training or further opportunities.

The Government is expanding the Youth Hub network to more than 360 locations across Great Britain by 2029, ensuring every young person, including those not receiving benefits, can access high-quality, joined-up support in their local area.

Newcastle-under-Lyme is scheduled to receive a Youth Hub in Year 2 of the expansion programme (2027/28). South and East Staffordshire are due to receive a Youth Hub in Year 2 (2027/28), while Staffordshire Moorlands is scheduled to receive a Youth Hub in Year 3 (2028/29).