Youth unemployment forecast to hit 800,000 as Burnham pledges action

The Department for Work and Pensions is projected to receive 60,000 additional benefits claimants as youth unemployment is forecast to exceed 800,000, reaching its highest level since 2014. The British Chambers of Commerce predicts the unemployment rate for 16 to 24-year-olds will rise to 17.6 percent in 2027, up from 16.2 percent in the three months to June. The increase is attributed to economic challenges including inflation, struggling exports, and geopolitical shocks from the Iran war. Prime Minister Andy Burnham has pledged action, promising to elevate technical education alongside traditional academic paths and ensure no dead ends for young people. The government is investing £2.5 billion in opportunities to earn or learn, including 50,000 new youth apprenticeships.