Engaging NEET Young People: An Employer Toolkit

Why Should Employers Engage NEETs?

The Business Case

• Labour shortages: Many sectors (hospitality, retail, logistics, care, construction) face persistent vacancies that NEET young people can fill with the right support
• Loyalty: Young people given their first opportunity often become the most committed employees
• Government funding: Significant financial support is available for employers hiring NEETs
• Fresh perspectives: Young people bring energy, digital skills, and new ideas
• CSR and social value: Hiring NEETs demonstrates genuine community impact — increasingly important for public sector contracts (UK Social Value Act)

Structured Entry Programmes

Work Trials

• Short-term (1–4 weeks) unpaid or subsidised trial periods where the young person works alongside your team
• Low risk for both parties — the employer evaluates fit, and the young person experiences the role
• In the UK, Jobcentre Plus can arrange work trials with continued benefit payments

Traineeships

• UK: Government-funded programmes (6 weeks to 12 months) combining work preparation, English/maths, and work placements