Hannah Larsen, Policy Manager at the British Chambers of Commerce said:
“Young people need to be at the heart of thriving businesses and a growing economy.
“Today’s data showing just under a million young people not in education, employment or training is a stark reminder of the huge challenge the UK is facing.
“Our research shows more than half of businesses are facing skills shortages, and we simply can’t afford to leave so much young talent on the sidelines.
“We welcome government initiatives such as the Jobs Guarantee, which is starting to make a difference.
“Businesses want to hire more young people, but rising cost pressures have made that hugely challenging. The impact of the Employment Rights Act, employer NICs changes and increases in the National Living Wage have left firms trying to do the right thing with one arm tied behind their back.
“The upcoming report by Alan Milburn is a huge moment. We hope his recommendations will take on board both the part businesses can play in dealing with the youth jobs crisis but also recognise the huge pressures firms are facing.”