The government has introduced a new initiative where young individuals may face a reduction in benefits if they decline job offers. Starting in April 2026, approximately 55,000 young people in six regions across the UK, identified as having the greatest need, will be offered job opportunities.
These positions will span six months, with 25 hours of work per week fully funded, and will cover various sectors like construction and hospitality. To qualify, individuals must be aged between 18 and 21, have been on Universal Credit, and actively seeking employment for at least 18 months. Participants will receive payment at the minimum wage rate and comprehensive support.
Secretary of Work and Pensions, Pat McFadden, emphasized that young individuals must have a valid reason for turning down these placements, such as a family emergency. The scheme will be implemented in areas including Birmingham, Solihull, the East Midlands, Greater Manchester, Hertfordshire, Essex, central and east Scotland, and south-west and south-east Wales.
The government aims to create a total of 350,000 training and work experience opportunities, with funding sourced from an £820 million allocation announced in the recent Budget. This initiative comes as the number of “Neets” (16-24-year-olds not engaged in education, employment, or training) has risen to 940,000, with a notable increase in sickness and disability rates over the past two years.
McFadden stated, “Every young person deserves a fair chance to succeed,” stressing the importance of providing support and opportunities for young individuals to embark on successful career paths. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson added that early intervention tools and data analysis will be used to prevent young individuals from dropping out of education, ensuring they receive the necessary support to achieve their goals and contribute positively to the economy.