Introduction

The Green Party has put forward a proposal to guarantee two-year employment for young people who are not in education, training, or work. The plan aims to tackle rising youth joblessness and provide long-term support into the labour market.

What Happened

At the party's conference in Brighton, co-deputy leader Mothin Ali announced the policy, warning that nearly a million young people are currently disconnected from education or employment. The scheme would see the government cover half the salary for private sector roles, with pilot programmes launching in Rotherham, Ceredigion, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Broxtowe, and South Staffordshire.

Why This Matters

Official figures show the number of 16- to 24-year-olds not in education, employment, or training has risen since the Covid pandemic, approaching nearly one million. The party argues that investing in young people now could save an estimated £240,000 per person in lifetime benefits and increase tax revenue through sustained employment.

Key Takeaways

  • Two-year job guarantee for unemployed under-24s
  • Government covers 50% of salary, employers provide in-job training
  • Pilot schemes launching in five areas, targeting 9,000 jobs
  • Long-term savings estimated at £240,000 per young person in benefits
  • Plan contrasts with the government's six-month subsidised job scheme

Conclusion

If rolled out nationwide, the Green Party's plan could transform youth employment support, shifting focus from short-term placements to sustained, government-backed careers. The proposal reignites debate over how best to tackle NEET figures and invest in the next generation of workers.