The Prince’s Trust Tesco Youth Index 2021 reports on the impact that COVID-19 is having on young people’s mental health in the UK. Using findings from a survey across 2,180 16-25 year olds, the report highlights the “devastating toll” the COVID-19 pandemic has had on young people’s mental health, with those not in education, employment or training significantly more likely to feel anxious and depressed. 

Key results found in the report are:

• • 26% of 16 to 25-year olds admit they feel “unable to cope with life”, increasing to 40% among NEETs;
  • 65% of NEETs said that the longer they are jobless, the worse they feel about themselves;
  • 24% of all young people surveyed said the pandemic has destroyed their career hopes;
  • 60% of young people said getting a new job feels impossible now because there is so much competition;
  • 21% felt scared that their skills and training are no longer useful.

However, the responses also indicate a motivation among young people to fight for a better future for their generation, with 78% remaining hopeful for a better year ahead.

To read the report in full, click here.