The proportion of young people who are not in education, employment or training in Cheshire West and Chester has fallen to 3.62%, according to the council.
The latest figure compares with 4.1% in 2025 and 5% in 2022. The council says it is the borough’s lowest NEET rate since before the Covid-19 pandemic.
The figures were released during Youth Work Week, alongside an update on the work of the Cheshire West and Chester NEET Taskforce.
Routes into learning and work
The taskforce, based in Winsford and chaired by council leader Louise Gittins, brings together education and training providers, youth services and voluntary organisations.
The council said it had worked with Cheshire College South and West to provide alternative starting points for young people joining education during the year. The college’s RISE programme offers a gradual introduction to college life ahead of further study.
Other partners include Total People, Youth Federation and The King’s Trust, with programmes designed to help young people build confidence before progressing into education, training or employment.
The council attributed the fall in the rate to joint working between these organisations and their support for young people facing barriers.
Employers invited to offer opportunities
Employers who would like to offer an opportunity to a young person can contact the council’s Young People’s Service at YoungPeoplesService@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk.
Source: Cheshire West and Chester Council’s release issued on 2 November 2026.