The number of young people who are not in employment, education or training (NEET) has been rising for the last decade. This report examines how the characteristics of NEETs have changed over this period, and how longer-term labour market change has affected the transition for young people from education into employment.

The report shows that young people are finding it increasingly difficult to make the first step into work. It argues that for some the transition into work has become more difficult and that support from service providers should be concentrated on this important stage.