THE number of young people in Inverclyde not in education, employment or training (NEET) has hit its highest level in five years, according to new figures.
A total of 160 young people aged 16 to 19 in Inverclyde were not participating in positive destinations as of 2025.
The data shows a rise of nearly 40 per cent since 2021 when 116 young people were recorded as not participating.
The figures were released following a parliamentary question by Scottish Liberal Democrat MSP, Jamie Greene.
Latest data shows that as of 2024 there were 3,356 teenagers in the 16 to 19 age group in Inverclyde.
Mr Greene believes the local figures show progress has stalled and teenagers are being left behind.
The West Scotland MSP said: “These figures show that too many young people in Inverclyde are still being left without a clear pathway into work, education or training.
“The number has risen significantly since 2021 and now stands at its highest level in five years.
"At the same time, the local employment rate has fallen sharply.
“After nearly two decades of SNP government, we should be seeing steady improvement in opportunities for young people, not rising disengagement and a weakening labour market."
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He called on ministers to set out what ‘targeted support’ is being provided locally to strengthen job opportunities and ‘ensure no young person in Inverclyde is left behind'.
Wider labour market data shows unemployment among working-age people has risen in Inverclyde.
Meanwhile, official statistics show that the employment rate for 16 to 64-year-olds in Inverclyde fell from 76.3 per cent to 68.4 per cent between 2022 and 2023 – the most recent figures released. Scotland as a whole saw a slight increase over the same period.
Unemployment locally has also risen with around 1,300 people aged 16 and over in Inverclyde unemployed in 2023. This is a rate of 3.8 per cent – a slight increase on 2022.
Around 13,000 people or 27.5 per cent of the population aged 16 to 64 years in Inverclyde were ‘economically inactive’ in December 2023. This compares with around 21.6 per cent in 2022.
People who are economically inactive do not have jobs and are not seeking work for various reasons, including retirement, sickness, or study.
The Telegraph has contacted the Scottish Government to ask for their comment on Mr Greene's remarks.
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