Young people and work report - Call for evidence

In November 2025 the government commissioned a Young people and work report that seeks to understand drivers of the increase in the number of young people who are NOT in Education Employment or Training (NEET).  

This call for evidence invites feedback from anyone with relevant lived experience, knowledge and expertise as to what the root cause of this rise in economic inactivity might be driven by.  It is vital that the experiences of young people who have Down’s syndrome are included.

Sunshine and Smiles are registered with the DSA WorkFit programme (https://downs-syndrome.org.uk/WorkFit) and it is evident that, with the right support, people who have Down's syndrome can and do thrive in paid, meaningful employment. WorkFit shows what’s possible when employers understand strengths, remove barriers, and commit to genuine inclusion.

Share your experiences and help shape future policy:

https://www.gov.uk/government/calls-for-evidence/young-people-and-work-report-call-for-evidence

Make sure your voice is heard. Your evidence of the opportunities and barriers to employment can help shape future policy and ensure that employment support for young people with Down syndrome and other learning disabilities is strengthened.

The Milburn Review is inviting evidence until 30 January 2026.

Parents/carers, disabled young people and employers can share their experiences by emailing youngpeopleandwork.report@dwp.gov.uk by Friday 30 January.

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