Burnham aims for ‘quite radical change’ in support for young people

Prime minister says ‘root and branch review of childhood’ is needed and he does not rule out some benefit cuts

The government is aiming for “quite radical change” in the way young people are supported, Andy Burnham has said, indicating this could include tougher rules for benefits as well as notably more help with everything from finding work to mental health.

In media interviews before the release of the second report by the former minister Alan Milburn on reducing the numbers of young people not in work, education or training, Burnham said his mission was “rethinking childhood” from the early years onwards.