Growing up in the UK should be an exciting time full of opportunities and support, but sadly, many young people feel let down by the very systems meant to help them thrive. There are numerous areas where the UK could improve. Here, we’ll explore 17 ways the UK is failing its young people.
Lack of Affordable Housing
“House prices have increased far more than wages since 1971,” reports Sky News, and one of the biggest issues facing young people in the UK is the lack of affordable housing. House prices and rent have skyrocketed in recent years, making it nearly impossible for many young people to move out of their parent’s homes, let alone buy a place of their own.
Stagnant Wages and Job Insecurity
Wages for the younger generation have remained largely stagnant. Many entry-level jobs offer low pay and little job security, leaving young workers struggling to make ends meet. The rise of zero-hour contracts and gig economy jobs has further destabilised the job market.
Mental Health Crisis
The United Kingdom is facing a mental health crisis among its youth, with anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues on the rise. Despite the growing need for mental health support, services are often underfunded and overstretched, leaving many young people without the help they need.
Education System Failing to Prepare for the Future
The education system is often criticised for its focus on rote learning and exam results rather than practical skills and real-world preparation. Many young people leave school feeling unprepared for the challenges of adulthood, lacking essential skills like financial literacy, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence.
High University Fees and Student Debt
University education in the United Kingdom has become increasingly expensive, with tuition fees reaching up to £9,250 per year. For many students, the prospect of taking on such significant debt is daunting, especially when there is no guarantee of a high-paying job after graduation.
Lack of Vocational Training and Apprenticeships
While university education is often emphasised, vocational training and apprenticeships are sometimes overlooked, leaving many young people without clear pathways into skilled trades and technical professions. The lack of investment in vocational education means that there are fewer opportunities for young people who may not be academically inclined.
Rising Cost of Living
The rising cost of living in the UK is a significant burden for those still growing up, especially those trying to establish themselves independently. Essentials like food, transportation, and utilities have all become more expensive, putting additional pressure on young people’s already stretched finances.
Limited Access to Affordable Childcare
For young parents, the cost of childcare in the UK is a major issue. Lots of people find that after paying for childcare, they have little left from their salaries, making it almost impossible to get ahead financially. The lack of affordable childcare options also limits young parents’ ability to return to work or pursue further education, trapping them in a cycle of dependency.
Poor Public Transport
Public transport in Britain, particularly outside of major cities, is often unreliable and expensive. For young people who rely on buses and trains to get to work, school, or social activities, the poor state of public transport can be a significant barrier. High fares, infrequent services, and delays can make it difficult to get around, especially in rural areas.
Youth Services Being Cut
In recent years, budget cuts have led to the closure of many youth centres and the reduction of youth services across the UK. These services play a crucial role in providing support, guidance, and safe spaces for young people, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. The loss of these services leaves many people without the help they need.
Discrimination and Inequality
Younger individuals in the United Kingdom still face significant discrimination and inequality, whether based on race, gender, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status. These forms of discrimination can have a profound impact on their lives, limiting their opportunities and affecting their mental and physical health.
Environmental Concerns Ignored
Increasingly concerned about the environment and the impact of climate change on their futures, the UK’s youth feel that their voices are not being heard. They think the government is not doing enough to address environmental issues. The lack of action on climate change and environmental sustainability leaves them feeling frustrated.
Limited Job Opportunities in Rural Areas
For those living in rural areas, finding meaningful employment can be particularly challenging. Job opportunities are often limited, so many are forced to move to cities for work. This migration can lead to a decline in rural communities, as young people leave in search of better prospects.
Inadequate Sexual Education
Sexual education in the United Kingdom is often criticised for being outdated and inconsistent, leaving many young people without the information they need to make informed decisions about their sexual health. In many schools, sex education is limited to the basics of reproduction, with little focus on consent, relationships, or sexual orientation.
Political Disenfranchisement
A lot of people in this country feel politically disenfranchised, believing that their voices are not heard or valued by those in power. The voting age is still 18, excluding 16 and 17-year-olds from participating in elections, despite their growing awareness and concern about political issues.
The Impact of Brexit
Brexit has significantly impacted young people in the UK, many of whom feel that their future opportunities have been limited by the decision to leave the European Union. The loss of freedom of movement, changes to education and work opportunities, and the economic uncertainty caused by Brexit have all affected young people disproportionately.
Lack of Support for Young Entrepreneurs
Lastly, starting a business as a younger individual in Great Britain can be incredibly challenging, with limited access to funding, resources, and mentorship. While there are some initiatives to support young entrepreneurs, many find it difficult in the complex world of business without the necessary guidance.
