Written by Professor Amelia Hadfield and Megan Ward. Amelia is the Founding Director of the Centre for Britain and Europe, Director of CIFAL Surrey and Associate Vice President of External Engagement. Megan is the Communications & Public Affairs Officer for the Centre for Britain and Europe and a graduate of the Politics & International Relations Department at the University of Surrey.
In our previous blogs, we explored the current impacts of flooding on Surrey residents and examined how the recent devolution decision will shape future priorities, identifying ways to mitigate the associated risks. We followed this with an in-depth piece on the devolution announcement made on the 28th of October, detailing the merger of the East and West unitary councils and what this means for Surrey’s future.
Now, in part 3, we are turning our attention to one of the most pressing challenges facing the county: improving outcomes for young people who are at risk of falling through the cracks of the education system.
Earlier this week, the government recognised this “crisis of opportunity” and launched an independent investigation into rising youth inactivity, as it was found that nearly a million young people nationally are out of education, employment or training. They aim for the findings to shape reforms already underway in skills, health, welfare, and employment support.
“I am determined to build a system that supports young people, not just in finding a job, but to build a better future – because when young people succeed, Britain succeeds… If we get this right, the prize is huge – transforming lives and life chances, with the pent-up potential of the next generation firing our economy and building a better future for all.” – Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Pat McFadden
In our 17th of September blog, Megan highlighted the power of successful collaboration in Surrey’s communities and the implications of failing to support young people back into education, employment or training (EET). With 8.4% of Surrey’s young people currently NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training) or at risk of becoming so, and each NEET individual costing an estimated £104,000 in lost productivity and earnings over their lifetime, the need for focused, preventative action could not be clearer.
Understanding the Barriers
Through events and discussions with local stakeholders, we have already identified several key barriers that hinder progress. These include:
- Fragmented data systems that prevent joined-up support.
- Short-term funding that limits sustainable impact.
- Disconnected services that make it difficult for young people to access consistent help.
These challenges are felt not only by the professionals supporting young people but also by the young people themselves, who experience these systemic gaps firsthand.
Taking Immediate Action
Immediate support is possible. Many young people are eager to find work or training opportunities but simply lack accessible options. That’s why initiatives like the Links Centre 2030 in Leatherhead are so vital. The centre offers horticulture and construction skills programmes for young people not currently in education or employment, and will soon pilot a project with Therfield School, giving students valuable hands-on experiences before they make crucial academic and career choices.
We also encourage local groups, including the Chambers of Commerce, to collaborate with SMEs to create more pathways into work. Local businesses can play a pivotal role by offering work experience placements or internships, helping young people gain confidence and practical skills.
“Rising youth inactivity is a crisis of opportunity that demands urgent, coordinated action. With nearly a million young people nationally, and 8.4% in Surrey, out of education, employment or training, we cannot afford fragmented systems or short-term solutions. Young people need accessible pathways, meaningful experiences, and support tailored to their strengths. By improving data sharing, strengthening collaboration, and investing in preventative initiatives like The Links Centre and new early-identification tools, we can unlock the potential of the next generation. When young people thrive, communities prosper—building a stronger economy, fairer life chances, and a better future for all.” – Professor Amelia Hadfield
Building a Preventive Approach
Preventing young people from becoming NEET requires more than short-term fixes; it demands a coordinated, long-term strategy. One of our valued stakeholders, Leah Boxell, has led the development of a new platform designed to identify and support at-risk young people. The platform will help schools flag students who may need extra help and connect them to tailored support, not only academic, but also social, emotional, and professional.
This tool will foster stronger school communities and open a variety of opportunities for young people, ensuring that support isn’t limited to traditional education pathways.
Looking Ahead
Developing and recognising each young person’s individual strengths is crucial. Young people need to feel that there’s a place for them in the future, in roles that excite and motivate them. They’re not looking for “old-fashioned” jobs, but flexible, meaningful experiences that spark curiosity and growth. With Surrey’s ageing population projected to increase by 36.6% by 2040, there has never been a more relevant time to start prioritising skills development and opportunities for young people in Surrey.
Everyone’s journey is different, and what works for one group may not work for another. We must keep that diversity at the heart of our approach. Every single young person deserves a chance, and it is up to all of us in Surrey to make sure they get it.
