From NEET to LEET 

What if we changed the way we talk about people who are currently outside employment, education or training? 

The term NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training) is widely used to describe people who are not currently engaged in work or learning. But there’s a problem with the language: it defines people by what they aren’t doing, rather than what they might be looking to do. 

What if, instead, we called them LEETs: Looking for Education, Employment or Training? 

It’s a small change in terminology, but a significant shift in perspective. 

NEET can sound like a label of inactivity, suggesting that someone is disconnected, disengaged or simply standing still. LEET, on the other hand, introduces possibility. It suggests someone who is exploring options, considering their next steps, developing new skills or looking for a way to contribute. 

For people aged 50 and over, this distinction is particularly important. A career break, redundancy, caring responsibilities, retirement or a change in personal circumstances doesn’t erase a lifetime of skills, knowledge and experience. Nor does it mean that someone’s working life has come to an end. 

Being out of work does not necessarily mean someone doesn’t want to work, lacks motivation or has nothing to contribute. There are often complex personal, health-related and economic reasons behind it. 

Of course, it’s important to recognise that not everyone who is NEET is in a position to become a LEET. Some people may not have the capacity, opportunity or desire to pursue these options at a particular point in their lives. But for those who are ready to explore new possibilities, a change in perspective can make a real difference. 

In Wales, free support is available to LEETs from PRIME Cymru. We support people aged 50+ to return to employment, start a new business, undertake training or get involved with volunteering. Our free mentoring gives people the right encouragement, support and opportunity to discover what comes next. 

PRIME Cymru Chief Executive, Hayley Ridge-Evans, said: “At PRIME Cymru we know only too well that mature people can be written off because they are ‘NEET’ – a term which is ordinarily used to describe young people. In Wales there are over 800,000 people aged 50 and over who are not working, learning or training.  We recognise the potential in our clients and the vast skills and experience they can bring to a workplace. Turning NEET into LEET can help empower people to feel valued and that they have something to give.’   

For free support, you can contact us on 01550 721813 or email enquiries@primecymru.co.uk.