"it’s the system failing them."
The Society of Occupational Medicine (SOM) has welcomed Alan Milburn’s review into youth unemployment, but warned the Government risks failing young people unless employers receive specialist occupational health support from the beginning.
The organisation described Milburn’s Young People and Work diagnostic report as “a vital wake-up call” amid growing concern over the number of young people not in education, employment or training (NEET).
Neil Greenberg, President of SOM, said: “Milburn’s review is a vital wake-up call.
“Young people do not lack ambition; it’s the system failing them.
“Expecting managers to navigate complex mental health or neurodevelopmental conditions without specialist healthcare-focused advice is unrealistic.
“Occupational health professionals are the missing link.
“When employers have access to work and health expertise, provided by occupational health professionals, they feel far more confident hiring and supporting young people with health conditions.
“Good work is beneficial for mental health, but we need the right support systems in place to help young people stay in work and thrive.”
Milburn’s report found many young people want to work despite public misconceptions, but face barriers including limited opportunities, poor guidance and a lack of clear routes into employment.
The review called for a “systems reset” across welfare, healthcare and employment support, with stronger collaboration between sectors to tackle rising youth economic inactivity.
According to the report, one in eight people aged between 16 and 24 are classed as NEET. More than half of them have an underlying health condition, while one in five experiences mental health problems.
The SOM argued healthcare services are still failing to promote employment as part of good health outcomes. It said clinicians should make clearer to young people that being in suitable work can support mental wellbeing.
The organisation also criticised the welfare system, pointing to figures showing £25 is spent on welfare for every £1 invested in helping people return to work.
It added that four in five young people claiming health-related Universal Credit cite mental health or neurodevelopmental conditions as their main barrier to employment.
The SOM said occupational health professionals could play a crucial role in preventing young people from falling out of education or work entirely through early intervention and tailored support.
It also argued workplace adjustments, including flexible hours and quiet working spaces, are often low-cost and effective but require specialist guidance to implement properly for neurodivergent employees or those with health conditions.
The comments come after the Department for Work and Pensions announced reforms to the fit note system.
The SOM said closer collaboration between occupational health experts, GPs and community health workers could help more people remain in employment.
The organisation stressed that tackling the UK’s youth employment crisis would require coordinated action across Government departments, including the Department for Work and Pensions, the Department of Health and Social Care, and the Department for Education.
It also called for stronger collaboration with teachers, mental health specialists, community leaders and employers to rebuild pathways into work for young people.
The SOM said closing the gap between healthcare, welfare and employment systems would be central to addressing the crisis, adding that occupational health specialists are key to making that happen.
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