How Malta’s Food Culture Can Help Tackle Youth Employment Crisis
The number of young people not in education, employment, or training (Neets) is projected to exceed one million for the first time in over a decade, driven largely by the growing impact of disability and ill health. This concerning trend underscores the need for holistic solutions that prioritize health and well-being to help youth thrive. In Malta, where the Mediterranean lifestyle and culinary culture emphasize nutritious eating and community, the food and hospitality industry could play a pivotal role in addressing these challenges. By creating inclusive work environments, offering training programs, and supporting initiatives that promote mental and physical health, restaurants and cafes can help young people overcome barriers to employment and education. Partnerships between businesses, health organizations, and government bodies could foster innovative programs, such as nutrition education and wellness workshops, that align professional growth with healthy living. As Malta continues to champion its reputation as a culinary destination, the integration of employment initiatives with its health-promoting lifestyle offers a unique opportunity to support young people and drive inclusivity in the workforce.
Title: "One Million Young People Facing Employment and Education Challenges: The Role of Health and Lifestyle Solutions"
The number of young people not in education, employment, or training (commonly referred to as "Neets") is set to exceed one million for the first time in over a decade, according to new research from the Resolution Foundation. This concerning trend highlights the growing challenges faced by youth, particularly those impacted by disability and ill health, which have doubled as a contributing factor since 2005. With Malta prioritizing health and well-being as part of its vibrant food and lifestyle culture, this issue raises vital questions about how holistic approaches can support young people in thriving personally and professionally.
The research reveals that 940,000 young people currently fall into this group, with projections showing the number will soon surpass one million. The last time figures were this high was in the aftermath of the 2012 financial crisis. Among the most alarming statistics is that one in four young people classified as Neets are inactive due to disability or ill health—a figure that has risen steadily over the past two decades. These findings emphasize the importance of integrating health-focused solutions into policies aimed at reducing unemployment and inactivity among youth.
In Malta, where the culinary scene and Mediterranean lifestyle are often celebrated for their health benefits, promoting healthy living could play a key role in addressing such challenges. A balanced diet rich in fresh, local produce, coupled with access to mental health resources, could be instrumental in helping young people overcome barriers to employment or education. Restaurants, cafes, and other food establishments can also contribute by creating inclusive work environments, offering training programs, and supporting initiatives that improve mental and physical well-being.
The government’s recently announced "Youth Guarantee" policy aims to ensure all young people are either earning or learning by matching them with local training or employment opportunities. This ambitious plan includes a "targeted backstop," which guarantees paid work for eligible young people on Universal Credit for more than 18 months. While this initiative seeks to offer a pathway into employment, it also comes with potential penalties, such as benefit sanctions or loss of entitlement for those who turn down work opportunities. The Maltese restaurant and hospitality industry, which continues to grow and adapt, could play a pivotal role here by offering entry-level positions, apprenticeships, and skill-building programs tailored to young individuals, including those with disabilities.
However, concerns remain. Current proposals to restrict eligibility for health-related benefits under Universal Credit for those under 22 could disproportionately affect young people with disabilities. James Taylor, executive director of strategy at Scope, a disability equality charity, warns that cutting financial support for this vulnerable group could exacerbate existing barriers to employment. He stresses that the government must focus on removing obstacles for disabled young people instead of forcing them into unsuitable jobs or stripping away their safety nets.
For Malta, where community and inclusivity are valued, this presents an opportunity to advocate for more accessible and supportive environments—both in education and the workplace. Restaurants and food establishments can lead the way by providing opportunities for young people to develop skills in a welcoming setting. For instance, initiatives that promote employment for individuals with disabilities or health conditions could be paired with Malta’s emphasis on nutritious eating and wellness.
The report also highlights that nearly half of young people in this group (44%) do not engage with the benefits system at all. Researchers from the Resolution Foundation suggest creating a national "front door" to help young people access education and training. Extending the Youth Guarantee to include those aged 22–24 could further support the transition into work or education, while improving Work Capability Assessments for young people receiving health-related benefits would ensure their needs are adequately addressed.
Louise Murphy, senior economist at the Resolution Foundation, notes that the sharp rise in Neets is largely driven by young people experiencing ill health or disability. Without targeted interventions, there’s a risk of these individuals facing long-term disadvantages, including lower living standards. For Malta’s food and hospitality industry, this raises the potential for collaboration with health organizations and government bodies to create programs that not only provide job opportunities but also promote mental and physical health. For example, partnerships could focus on nutrition education, wellness workshops, and community engagement initiatives.
A government spokesperson emphasized its commitment to ensuring "every young person has the chance to thrive." Expanding mental health services and modernizing Jobcentres are among the measures being implemented to help young people secure stable employment. The government is also funding programs such as "Connect to Work," which aims to equip individuals with the skills needed to succeed and meet the demands of businesses.
For Malta, where food, health, and community are deeply intertwined, addressing challenges faced by young people requires a multifaceted approach. Restaurants, cafes, and local food producers can play a critical role in creating opportunities for youth while promoting a lifestyle that supports both physical and mental well-being. By combining employment initiatives with Malta’s culinary heritage, the country could serve as a model for how healthy living and professional growth go hand in hand.
As policymakers, businesses, and individuals work to tackle these challenges, ensuring that every young person feels valued and supported remains paramount. In a country known for its hospitality and commitment to quality of life, Malta is uniquely positioned to turn these challenges into opportunities for innovation and inclusivity—one healthy meal and one meaningful job at a time.