June 2026 - The “first rung” problem: what the government’s latest youth employment report means for young people in the North East

A new government report into young people and work has painted a worrying picture. Across the UK, almost one million young people aged 16–24 are currently not in education, employment or training (NEET). The report describes a growing gap between young people and the world of work — and warns that many are struggling to access the 'first rung' of opportunity.

But behind the statistics are real young people facing real pressures. Many are leaving school with qualifications but little confidence. Others are anxious about the future, unsure where they fit, or struggling to see a clear pathway into adulthood. For some, the systems around them simply don't feel designed for participation.

What the report highlights

• rising mental health pressures
• fewer entry-level opportunities
• pressure within the education system
• lack of meaningful work experience
• low confidence and disengagement
• increasing barriers for young people facing disadvantage

One line stands out in particular: “The bottom rungs of the career ladder have been kicked away.” This feels especially relevant here in the North East, where many young people are growing up against a backdrop of rising costs, inequality and limited opportunities.

Why this matters to us at Destination Loading CIC

At Destination Loading CIC, this is one of the reasons we care so deeply about creating engaging, discussion-led workshops that help young people feel more confident navigating real life. Because readiness for adulthood is about far more than academic results.

• communication and decision-making
• confidence and resilience
• understanding money
• feeling able to speak up
• feeling prepared for unfamiliar situations
• believing that opportunities are for you too

Young people need spaces that feel different

The report echoes what many teachers, youth workers and families already know: young people often need spaces that feel different from formal lessons to reflect, ask questions, explore real-life scenarios, and make mistakes safely.

That’s why our workshops are designed to feel interactive, conversational and practical — not like another classroom lecture. Whether we are exploring financial decisions, peer pressure, scams, confidence or future choices, our aim is always the same: to help young people build confidence for work and life.

This is not about “fixing” young people

The report makes clear that many young people are already trying hard within systems that can feel fragmented, pressurised and difficult to navigate. The challenge is not a lack of potential. Often, it is a lack of opportunity, support, connection and belief.

Where we go from here

At Destination Loading CIC, this is exactly why we do what we do. We believe young people deserve more than information alone. They deserve opportunities to build confidence, explore real-life challenges, develop their voice and feel more prepared for the future ahead of them.

Not every young person will follow the same path — nor should they. But every young person deserves to feel that they have value, potential and a place in the world around them.

Source: UK Government – Young People and Work: Interim Report (2026)

May 2026 - What We Learned from out Year 8 Money Focus Group

Recently, we spent time with a fantastic group of Year 8 students to explore their thoughts around money, spending and decision-making as part of our FundEd workshop development.

The session gave us some brilliant insights into the pressures and influences young people face around money today. Students spoke openly about spending on things like clothing, trainers, gaming and trending products, with many admitting that social media, influencers and “everyone else having it” strongly affects their decisions.

One of the biggest takeaways was how common buyer’s regret already is at such a young age — every student said they had bought something they later regretted. Many reflected that they wished they had saved the money instead.

When asked what they actually want to learn about, students highlighted practical topics including budgeting, setting up bank accounts, getting jobs and understanding how social media influences spending.

The feedback around learning styles was equally valuable. Students were clear that they enjoy interactive activities, games, competition and discussion far more than traditional worksheets or long periods of talking.

Perhaps most importantly, despite being thoughtful and engaged students, none described themselves as very confident when making money decisions. This reinforced exactly why practical, relatable financial education is so important.

The focus group has already helped us shape ideas for our pilot FundEd workshops, and we’re excited to continue developing sessions that feel relevant, engaging and genuinely useful for young people.