Pathways to labor engagement: young people’s experiences of social prescribing as a response to the NEET phenomenon

Background: Young people Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET) constitute a heterogeneous population facing intertwined psychological, social and structural barriers to labor market participation. Disengagement from work is often linked to mental health difficulties, social isolation and reduced agency. Although social prescribing has gained attention as a public health approach to address social determinants of health, its role in supporting employment pathways remains underexplored, particularly for young people in NEET situations. Methods: This qualitative study explores young people's experiences of the C.O.P.E. social prescribing intervention implemented in the Autonomous Province of Trento, Italy. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 participants aged 16-34 (in line with the extended NEET definition used in Italian policy frameworks), selected through maximum variation sampling to capture diversity in age, gender, educational background and levels of social isolation. Data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Results: Findings highlight the heterogeneity of NEET trajectories and a strained relationship with the labor market, characterized by fear, low self-confidence and disorientation. Participants described the intervention not as a direct route to employment, but as a relational and preparatory space supporting trust-building, emotional stabilization and gradual re-engagement. The Link Worker emerged as a key 'in-between' figure, combining practical guidance with person-centered support. Reported outcomes included increased self-esteem, agency and clarity about future steps, rather than immediate employment. Conclusion: From users' perspectives, social prescribing may support psychosocial readiness for labor market engagement rather than direct employment outcomes. The findings suggest that policies addressing youth disengagement should integrate relational and wellbeing-oriented support with activation and employment projects and services. Embedding social prescribing within coordinated health and labor systems may improve engagement among vulnerable young people.