New report examines young people’s health-related economic inactivity in Scotland

Public Health Scotland (PHS) has published a new briefing exploring the rise of health-related economic inactivity among young people aged 16 to 24 in Scotland and the extent to which poor mental health may be negatively influencing sustained transitions from school into employment, education and training.

While more young people in Scotland are moving into employment, education and training after leaving school, the number who are economically inactive due to health reasons has been rising for more than a decade. Mental health issues are identified as a key driver of this trend, which is projected to continue in the years ahead.

The briefing highlights that today's young people face a unique combination of challenges impacting their health, including persistent social, economic and environmental inequalities, the lasting impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, a changing labour market and the influence of digital technology. It also shows that disadvantage, where someone lives, and a lack of access to opportunities can all reduce a young person’s chances of progressing into sustainable employment, education or training.

This briefing addresses an important evidence gap by combining Scotland-specific data, evidence and perspectives from a wide range of stakeholders to better understand this significant public health and societal issue and, importantly, what action needs to be taken to address it. Findings are consistent with conclusions emerging elsewhere, including the recent Milburn Review, while reflecting the distinct Scottish policy and service context.

The findings point to the need for a whole-system and whole-government approach to addressing mental health-related economic inactivity. This will include investing in the early years, tackling emerging problems during childhood and adolescence, strengthening local cross-service working and ensuring young people can access joined-up support. The report also emphasises the need for more entry-level and good-quality employment opportunities, alongside support for employers to recruit, retain and mentor young people experiencing mental health challenges.

Read the full report here.

Read the Millburn Review here.

This work supports the ambitions set out in PHS's 10-year strategy, Together We Can, by promoting a preventative approach to improving health and reducing inequalities, enabling more young people to thrive, participate fully in society and realise their potential.