Burnham seeks ‘quite radical change’ in support for young people

Summary

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said the government is aiming for "quite radical change" in how young people are supported, which could include tougher benefit rules alongside notably more help with finding work and mental health. In media interviews ahead of the release of a second report by former minister Alan Milburn on reducing the number of young people not in work, education or training, Burnham said he wants a "root and branch review of childhood" and described his mission as "rethinking childhood" from the early years onwards. He did not rule out some benefit cuts.

Timeline

1. The Guardian

   6 Nov 2026, 16:50 UTCSource ↗

   The Guardian reports that Andy Burnham says the government is aiming for "quite radical change" in how young people are supported, does not rule out some benefit cuts, and says a "root and branch review of childhood" is needed ahead of Alan Milburn's second report on young people not in work, education or training.