Cuts to youth benefits risk leaving unemployed young adults without transport options

A study by the New Economics Foundation revealed that roughly three-quarters of NEETs lack any council-backed bus discount, and nearly all 22-24-year-old NEETs are without an open-to-all youth fare scheme. The research also highlighted that one-third of young NEETs live in areas with limited transport links, a figure that climbs to 42% in coastal regions. Government officials are debating the removal of the health component of Universal Credit for those under 25, replacing it with employment-focused support.

Critics argue that cutting benefits without guaranteeing affordable travel will leave many young people unable to reach job interviews or training. The think-tank proposes free bus travel for under-25s and expanded services in rural and coastal zones, estimating an upfront cost of £1.1 billion rising to £1.5 billion annually. Officials point to existing schemes like the Flexible Support Fund that can cover travel costs for eligible jobseekers.