Dr Emily Erickson responds to the Budget

Commenting on the Autumn Budget 2026, Dr Emily Erickson, Assistant Professor, Institute for Employment Research, University of Warwick, said:

“Youth unemployment is not a problem of young people lacking skills. It’s about whether employers create opportunities for young people to develop.

"Today’s confirmation of £100 million for a local apprenticeship service to match young people with local firms is recognition of the urgent need to invest in skills development and support for both young people and employers.

“The real tests are whether Milburn’s upcoming report outlines the foundation of a stable, high-quality vocational education and training system, and whether the Government can establish a settlement that provides employers, providers and local institutions the confidence to plan long-term.”

ENDS

Notes to Editors

See previous: emily-erickson-responds to Work and Pensions Committee report on youth, education and training (22/07/26)