This week DR UK attended the launch of Youth Employment UK's Youth Voice Census. The full Youth Voice Census report can be found on their website.
The research, curated via responses to their survey and focus groups across the country, has shown some of the worst outcomes for young people in the UK compared to their reports in previous years.
The main themes that Youth Employment UK highlighted were as follows:
- Mental Health Emergency
- Difference is the disadvantage
- Unprepared for the future
- Quality of Work: Employers and opportunities
The report explores how young people's mental health is in crisis, with a lack of support, and a future disrupted by economic crises, the COVID-19 pandemic, and fears around climate change – amongst other things. The research found that young people are also struggling with loneliness and making and keeping friendships.
Young people were more likely to state that they are 'not confident' or 'not confident at all' in their self-belief – and this lack of confidence was often worse amongst those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
The research also highlighted barriers to work, including a lack (or at times complete absence) of careers advice and support in school, and not being able to access employment opportunities.
Bethany Bale, Policy and Campaigns Officer at DR UK, said:
"This report highlights what we've known for a long time that young people's lives have been greatly disrupted by the various crises that are currently happening both nationally and globally. We know the impact this has had on adults, who have a wealth of experience living independently, so it's unsurprising that young people's confidence and wellbeing have taken such a hit. Disabled young people face additional barriers accessing their education and employment, so it's essential that research considers this intersectional experience – and employers provide the support and opportunities that this group are currently missing out on."