Jobless youth

Long-term youth unemployment in England has increased by 23% since the government came to power in May 2010, according to a TUC study published at the end of last month.

The North West is the worst-hit region with a 53% increase (26,000 people) in the number of 16- to 24-year-olds out of work for six months or longer. It is followed by the East of England (40%) and Yorkshire and the Humber (29%).

The analysis is based on data from the Office for National Statistices. It also says the coalition will spend £98 million less this year on supporting young people on Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) in England than was previously provided under Labour’s Youth Guarantee.