We welcome the Chancellor’s recognition that skills are key to breaking this cycle. The £1.5 billion investment in the Youth Guarantee and Growth and Skills Levy is a strong signal that tackling the UK’s stubborn NEET rate is a priority. Fully funded apprenticeships for under-25s in SMEs and short, targeted courses in high-demand sectors like digital, engineering, and clean energy will help employers build the talent pipeline they need while opening doors for thousands of young people.

As a global skills charity, we see the shift from the Apprenticeship Levy to a broader Growth and Skills Levy as a positive move, however implementation will be key. The devolution of £13 billion to mayoral authorities is another positive step, giving regions the power to address local skills gaps and drive inclusive growth. We explore this topic in more detail in our latest report: How can Devolution Help the UK Skills System.

While these announcements are encouraging overall, they must be part of a sustained, long-term strategy. Important issues remain unresolved, such as employer confidence to invest in training and expand apprenticeship opportunities. Without tackling this challenge head-on, even well-funded initiatives risk falling short. Businesses need clarity and support to commit to long-term workforce development, and this must be a central focus of future policy.

Colleges are also warning that the Budget offers little immediate financial relief, leaving many struggling to maintain provision. Sector leaders have also highlighted a lack of investment in adult education and digital access, risking future workforce readiness. As an Awarding Organisation, NOCN Group will continue to amplify these concerns on behalf of our customers and partners.

The measures set out this week are a start, but bigger, bolder action is needed to match the scale of the challenge. At a time of economic uncertainty and advancing technology, this focus on and investment in skills comes at the right time.