Young People and Coronavirus: Special Series

 Young People and Coronavirus: Special Series

By Alex Guy

 

Covid-19 has affected almost every aspect of life, and young people, especially those who are vulnerable, face considerable challenges in education, employment, and mental health. Evidence suggests that young people are less at risk in terms of developing severe physical health symptoms linked to Covid but the disruption to their education and employment opportunities is likely to put them on a much more volatile trajectory in finding and maintaining quality jobs and income.

 The period of adolescence (from the onset of puberty until independent adulthood) covers a unique period of change during which young people can be particularly vulnerable to experiencing the kinds of social welfare problems that give rise to a need for advice[1].  Research by Youth Access has shown that young people aged under 25 are considerably less likely than the general population to access legal advice when they experience social welfare problems[2].  As well as being a key predictor of mental health problems in young people[3] the experience of problems can also lead to a loss of confidence, loss of income, physical illness and unemployment[4].  Advice and early intervention can have a huge positive impact on outcomes for young people by preventing the escalation of problems and saving resources and funds in the long term.   A study of clients of youth advice services found that 64% of those who received advice reported an improvement in their stress levels[5].

Post Covid, demand from under 25 year olds accessing our service increased three-fold, showing the increased need for support within this age group. Over the next week, we will share micro reports which summarise external research publications on how young people have been affected by coronavirus in areas such as employment, education, and access to youth organisations.

 

                                                                       

If you or anyone you know needs support, please contact Citizens Advice

https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/

 

 

References:  

  1Engaging Young People – Citizens Advice Tunbridge Wells & District 2019

  2Kenrick, J. Young People’s Access to Advice - the evidence, October 2009

  3Youth Access, The Social Determinants of Young People’s Mental Health, June 2015

  4Balmer, N.J., Pleasence, P. Young People & Legal Problems: Findings from the Legal Problem Resolution Survey 2014-2015, February 2018

  5Balmer, N.J., Pleasence, P. Young People & Legal Problems: Findings from the Legal Problem Resolution Survey 2014-2015, February 2018