You’re not on your own: free support if you’re 16 -  24 and not in education, employment or training

Around one million young people across the UK are currently not in work, education or training, roughly one in every eight young people, and the numbers are rising.

A government-commissioned report found that six in 10 young people who are classed as Neet (not in education, employment or training) have never had a job before. In 2005, that figure was four in 10.

While the statistics are worrying, there is support if you’re struggling to find your next step, and most of it is completely free.

Where you can get help

Your local council, school or college

If you’re unsure what to do next, your local council, school or college is often the best place to start.

They work together to identify young people who may need extra support and can help you build a plan for your future, whatever your situation.

You can get help with:

• exploring career ideas and future options
• finding courses, training or apprenticeships
• learning new skills
• searching for jobs
• writing your CV and applications
• preparing for interviews
• emotional health and wellbeing support
• speech and language support
• advice about benefits and financial help

Even if you don’t know what direction you want to go in yet, reaching out for support can open doors you didn’t realise were there.

National Careers Service

The National Careers Service offers free careers advice for people of all ages.

Whether you’re looking for your first job, thinking about training, or trying to work out your future, you can speak to an adviser who can help you make informed choices.

They can help you:

• explore career paths
• choose courses or training
• find opportunities near you
• build confidence in your next steps

You can visit their website or speak to an adviser over the phone for free. Call 0800 100 900.

Youth organisations and charities

Organisations such as The King’s Trust and other youth charities run programmes designed to help you gain confidence, build skills and move towards work or education.

Many programmes include:

• team-building activities
• personal development support
• work experience placements
• interview and CV support
• one-to-one mentoring

These programmes are designed to help you feel more confident about your future and give you practical support every step of the way.

Thinking about returning to education?

If you’re over 19 and considering going back into education, support is available. 

Whether you want to change careers, improve your qualifications, learn new skills or simply build your confidence, there are lots of free courses and financial support options available to you.

Free courses and training for adult learners

You may be able to access:

• Free courses for jobs – training that can lead straight to work in in-demand industries.
• Skills bootcamps – short, intensive courses in areas like digital skills, construction, or green energy.
• Multiply – free maths courses if you didn’t get a GCSE grade C/4 or above.
• Essential skills – courses in English, numeracy and digital skills – classroom or online, full-time or part-time.

Read more about the educational opportunities and financial support for mature students in our guide.