Pandemic Drives Spike in Youth Unemployment and Benefits Claims

Nearly 3 million people under 25 are 'economically inactive' - not working or seeking work. This has increased by 700,000 since before the pandemic.

Gen Zers are joking on TikTok about being unemployed and living on government benefits. Videos show them drinking during the day and talking about not needing to work.

Experts blame the pandemic for less preparedness among young people for the workplace. Lockdowns impacted education and skills building needed for jobs.

The number economically inactive due to ill health has doubled in 10 years, especially due to mental health issues among youth.

Separate analysis shows 3.9 million people claim benefits with no requirement to seek work. Inactivity driven by rises among 16-34 age group.