Regional analysis of young people in or at risk of NEET status in the Trenčín Region

The analysis examined young people who are not in employment, education or training (NEET), and those at risk of this situation, in the Trenčín self-governing region. It combined secondary statistical data (Statistical Office of the SR, 2021 Census, labour office and ministry data) with qualitative research: focus groups and group and individual semi-structured interviews (October 2024 – January 2025, thematic analysis in NVivo).

The research involved 311 young people – 48 active NEETs, 91 inactive NEETs and 172 students at risk of NEET status – and 114 teachers and youth workers from all nine districts of the region. The mapping identified 283 organisations working with young people.

The findings show a combination of objective barriers (the regional economy, a lack of flexible jobs, low wages, weak practical training, geographical constraints) and subjective factors (motivation and aspirations, family background, mental health, self-confidence). The analysis identified eight areas for prevention – from career guidance and family support to psychological help and cooperation between schools, companies and professional institutions.

The analysis is part of the project “Creating a regional analysis and regional partnerships to identify needs and locations suitable for youth work centres in the Trenčín Region”, funded by Programme Slovakia (ESF+).