Working together to reduce youth unemployment

As part of National Careers Week 2026, we’re proud to highlight the national efforts underway to strengthen the pathways that support young people into sustainable, rewarding careers.

Today, our Associate Director of Policy & Research, Sarah Welfare, and Central London Careers Hub Strategic Hub Lead, Michelle Sporle, are representing Reed in Partnership at a roundtable feeding into the Milburn Review - an independent, government commissioned review led by former government Minister Alan Milburn.

The review is examining the rise in economic inactivity among 16–24-year-olds, with a particular focus on the barriers preventing young people from progressing into education, employment or training.

The Central London Careers Hub has supported the review team by convening local partners and insights across the Borough of Islington for a roundtable session, ensuring that local voices, practitioners and community partners are meaningfully represented in the discussion.

Today's roundtable brings together employers, education providers, the health sector, local charities and other local stakeholders to explore:

• The key drivers behind the increase in young people not in education, employment or training
• Barriers preventing young people from entering or staying in the labour market
• What more can be done to widen opportunity and create clearer, better-supported routes into work

Sarah said:

“At Reed in Partnership, we know that helping young fulfil their potential in today’s jobs market requires coordinated support across employment, skills and wider services. That’s why our recent report, ‘A three lane superhighway into work’, sets out how a more integrated, equitable system can help young people navigate their journey into employment and thrive once they get there.

"We’re pleased to contribute our evidence, insight and frontline experience to this important review, and to continue championing stronger pathways into work during National Careers Week and beyond.”

Read our new report here.