Ashfield faces rising unemployment and Universal Credit claims

In Ashfield, a town in Nottinghamshire, about one-third of working-age people are not employed. Many residents are worried as Labour plans to implement new welfare reforms. These changes could affect financial support for those who need it, including young people like 17-year-old Holly. Holly had to leave college due to health issues. She has a long-term condition along with autism and ADHD. Holly depends on Personal Independence Payments (PIP) for transportation, often using expensive Ubers. She expressed worry about the upcoming changes to eligibility for these payments. Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall discussed plans to encourage more people to find jobs. Labour hopes these reforms will reduce the rising costs of benefits by over £5 billion annually by 2029. Holly wants to work, but she is uncertain if she can handle a full-time job due to her health. There are nearly one million young people in the UK, known as "NEETS," who are not in work, education, or training. Holly is trying to obtain a fit note from a doctor, which would allow her to receive more support without needing to look for work. Pippa Carter, who leads the Inspire and Achieve Foundation, helps many young people in the area. She says mental health challenges have become a major barrier for them. The effects of COVID-19 also contributed to their struggles. Pippa supports a new approach that aims to help young individuals gain employment.