May 26, 2025
Tech, teaching, and teens: UK expands facial recognition, boosts flexible work, and tackles youth unemployment
Facial recognition technology is rapidly expanding in UK policing
Live facial recognition (LFR) is swiftly becoming widespread across England and Wales, with nearly 4.7 million faces scanned in the past year—double that of 2023. Police are investing heavily, with fixed cameras soon to debut in Croydon and mobile units increasing. Retrospective facial searches have also surged.
Despite no specific legal framework, LFR is being normalised, accessing passport and immigration databases. Critics warn of self-regulation and racial bias, though police cite public support. A national system, Strategic Facial Matcher, is in development. Recently, LFR led to the arrest of a convicted sex offender, highlighting its controversial but effective use.
Youth Neet rate falls, but challenges remain across UK
The number of young people in the UK not in education, employment or training (Neet) has dropped slightly to 923,000—12.5% of 16–24-year-olds. New figures show a decrease among young men but a rise among young women. Regional disparities persist, with the North East having the highest Neet rate (15.1%).
A lack of qualifications and poverty increase Neet risk significantly. Charities like Impetus and Resurgo report success in helping young people into work. Meanwhile, the Restart Scheme has delivered over 3,000 placements, with the government urged to expand such programmes to reduce economic inactivity and boost national productivity.
Flexible working boosts teacher retention in UK schools
Flexible working is on the rise in UK schools, with 46% of teachers now using arrangements like job-sharing, planning from home, or flexible hours—up from 40% in 2022. The government’s Flexible Working Ambassadors programme has been extended, aiming to retain teachers and improve wellbeing. Research shows flexible options help keep educators in the profession, with 82% of school leaders saying it aids retention.
The Department for Education also offers tailored support through the FWAMS initiative. Teachers report that flexibility has helped them balance work and life, allowing them to stay in roles they love while raising standards.