Premier League teams are currently engaging with government officials to endorse youth centers and aid unemployed youths in finding work.
The new head of the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), Pat McFadden, is set to present strategies in collaboration with leading clubs to address the escalating number of young individuals not engaged in education or employment.
The newly appointed Work and Pensions Secretary will introduce a £25 million initiative to double the count of youth centers to more than 200 locations, including facilities at football clubs and libraries. These centers offer career advice and guidance to individuals aged 18 to 21.
The DWP announced that every Premier League club is in discussions with the government about hosting a youth center. Additionally, Mr. McFadden will formalize a partnership today with the English Football League and Rugby Football League.
Recent statistics reveal approximately 948,000 young individuals between 16 and 24 years old classified as NEETs – not in employment, education, or training from April to June 2025. This marked a 24,000 increase compared to the prior three months, as per official data.
Mr. McFadden, scheduled to visit Crystal Palace Football Club today, emphasized, “The current high number of young people not in education, employment, or training is unacceptable. This government is committed to addressing this issue by expanding Youth Hubs with a £25 million investment and forming partnerships with key organizations like the Premier League.”
Clare Sumner, the Premier League’s chief policy and social impact officer, expressed pride in supporting the expansion of Youth Hubs to ensure all young individuals, regardless of their backgrounds, have access to essential opportunities, support, and motivation.
The Premier League has dedicated £1.6 billion between 2022 and 2025 to enhance football and communities, focusing on supporting those in need and creating more learning and growth prospects for young people.
Collaborating with the government on the Youth Guarantee, the Premier League aims to amplify the impact of Youth Hubs and provide enhanced opportunities for young individuals to prosper.
Sumner emphasized, “Our joint efforts demonstrate that football transcends beyond the pitch, reaching out to those in need, enabling them to realize their potential, and fortifying communities nationwide.”