UK Conservative Party youth employment proposals

The UK Conservative Party has introduced a series of policy proposals aimed at addressing youth unemployment and the number of young people not in education, employment, or training (NEETs).

Initially, the party proposed the “Get to Work” scheme, a welfare reform targeting claimants aged 18 to 24. Under this plan, those without six months of continuous work history would receive a “Get to Work Allowance” instead of standard Universal Credit. This would require daily attendance at job centres, participation in work readiness courses, or work experience. If unemployment persists after six months, benefits would face a 30% reduction, though exemptions are planned for those with health issues or care responsibilities. Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary Helen Whately stated these measures aim to prevent young people from moving directly from school to benefits, calling the current trend a “disaster for our economy.” However, critics such as the anti-poverty charity Trussell have expressed concern that benefit reductions could prevent individuals from affording essentials.

Following these welfare restrictions, the party pledged to halve employer National Insurance contributions for workers aged 21 to 24, reducing the rate from 15% to 7.5%. Leader Kemi Badenoch described the initiative as “fiscally credible,” aiming to combat a “graduate recruitment crisis.” The party estimates the policy will cost £2.3 billion by 2029-30, offset by increased tax receipts and reduced Universal Credit spending.