Wake up calls help Neet generation

Ministers are to pay private companies to wake teenagers in a drive to get more youngsters back to college or work.

The initiative is part of Nick Clegg's £126 million Youth Contract to tackle the record number of England's 16 and 17-year-olds not in education, employment or training - the so-called "Neet" generation.

One scheme in the North East, run by Pertemps People Development Group, will see wake-up calls offered "to help young people develop a routine". Another, in Yorkshire, will see ex-soldiers deliver motivational sessions to disengaged youngsters through the Heroes to Inspire campaign.

The Deputy Prime Minister has revealed more details about the scheme, which will see charities and businesses paid by results and up to 55,000 youngsters return to college or find jobs.
© 2013 Press Association