We aren’t just numbers: Mohammed’s perspective on the Milburn Review
By Mohammed, GoodWork Programme Participant
I recently had the privilege of participating in the Milburn Review, which unexpectedly led to me being interviewed on both Channel 4 News and BBC Radio 4. I never imagined featuring on one major news outlet, let alone two. But more than that, I never imagined myself having the gall to put myself on a public platform to talk about what has often felt like my biggest insecurity: being NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training).
What I valued most from this entire experience was hearing the stories of other young people from different backgrounds. While we shared many of the same frustrations, such as the lingering fallout of the pandemic, a tough job market, and recruitment barriers, I also learned so much about the unique challenges different people face. The Milburn Review discusses the diverse experiences across the entire country, whether young people have caring responsibilities, face physical or mental health difficulties, live in a disadvantaged area, or haven’t received a good education. It really put the collective frustration, isolation, and defeat we all feel into perspective, and it was that shared feeling that ultimately pushed me to speak out on Channel 4 News and BBC Radio 4.
To be honest, it often feels like young people are not a priority in government; our needs are so often put last. I even believe the issue of youth unemployment only arose because of the impending impact it will have on the economy and pension schemes, which is how we all ended up feeling like just another statistic. When Shuab and Peter from the Milburn Review team actually sat down with us, it felt truly refreshing to have our issues heard. For once, the spotlight was actually on our struggles. This is why I believe having direct conversations with young people is so vital, as it allows us to address the social stigma and empowers us to contribute to tackling these issues. Resolving youth unemployment cannot work without us. Generations may feel divided right now, but we are all in the same boat navigating a declining economy.
If I could give one piece of advice to policymakers, it is that we aren’t just numbers. I know there are over one million young people who are NEET, but each of those people is a unique human being. Each of us faces a highly personal combination of challenges that prevents us from securing employment, and therefore, a one-size-fits-all policy will never work. Instead, we should aim to deliver tailored support to various demographics. Thankfully, there are charities that are already doing exactly that, and it is high time for those in positions of power to pull up a chair and learn from them.
Thank you to GoodWork and everyone who worked on the Milburn Review. This has truly been an unforgettable, invaluable experience that I will carry with me throughout my career journey.
