New report: Young people want to work – but mental health and system gaps are holding them back

The findings challenge the stereotype of a so‑called “work‑shy” generation, revealing instead that young people are motivated to work but face complex and overlapping barriers. 

A critical moment for young people 

The transition into adulthood has always been a significant step. But today’s young people are navigating that journey in an increasingly uncertain landscape, shaped by rising living costs, insecure work, and long waits for support. 

Across the UK, the scale of the challenge is growing. By age 23, around 1 in 7 young people are not in education, employment or training (NEET), with mental health difficulties and structural inequalities increasing that risk. 

At the same time, public narratives have too often misrepresented young people facing these challenges. Harmful stereotypes continue to affect confidence and self‑esteem, despite growing evidence that the reality is far more complex. 

This report sets out to shift that narrative by listening directly to young people themselves. 

Young people and employers are asking for the same things 

A key finding from the report is that young people and employers are not at odds. In fact, both are calling for clearer expectations and consistent support. 

When young people are supported without judgement and given practical tools, they are far more likely to feel confident in the workplace.

What the research shows 

Drawing on a survey of more than 600 young people aged 15–24, alongside focus groups with young people and employers, the report highlights the experiences behind the data

Key insights include: 

• Most young adults want to work and are actively trying to do so, with 77% of those aged 18-24 we surveyed actively looking for work. 

• Mental health and confidence are central to engagement with work, shaping when and how young people feel able to apply. 

• Job-hunting itself can be overwhelming, with 90% saying they experience stress or anxiety while doing so, and 76% saying their mental wellbeing affects their ability to look for work. 

• Support systems often fall short at key transitions, especially when moving from education into employment. 

• Employers want to do more, but many lack the guidance, resources or confidence to support young people effectively. 

When work feels out of reach 

For many young people, the issue is not motivation, but risk. 

Mental health challenges, financial pressures and repeated knockbacks can make job‑seeking feel overwhelming. Even where young people have qualifications or experience, barriers such as travel costs, low pay and a lack of accessible opportunities can limit their options. 

At the same time, gaps in mental health support continue to create additional pressure. Many young people experience a “cliff edge” when moving from child to adult services, while long waiting times can leave them without help at critical moments. 

This creates a cycle where poor mental health makes it harder to engage with work, and being out of work further damages wellbeing.

Employers want to do the right thing 

The report highlights a willingness among employers to better support young people, but a clear need for more guidance and resources. 

This is particularly true for smaller organisations, which may lack access to structured support or training. Workplace culture plays a critical role: environments with clear expectations, supportive management, and open conversations about wellbeing are far more likely to help young people succeed and stay in work. 

A system under pressure 

The findings come at a time when national reviews are examining the links between mental health, employment and welfare. 

However, the report warns that policy changes risk sending mixed messages to young people, offering reassurance with one hand, while reducing access to financial or practical support with the other. 

Without a more coordinated approach, there is a risk that young people continue to fall through the gaps. 

Building a better pathway into work 

Mental Health UK is calling for a more joined‑up system that supports young people earlier, more consistently, and with their mental health at its core. 

This includes clearer pathways into “meaningful activity”, not just paid work, but also education, training, volunteering and gradual re‑engagement. 

By focusing on long‑term confidence and wellbeing, rather than just job outcomes, the report sets out a more realistic and supportive model for helping young people thrive.