With one week to go before the general election, parties will be stepping up their campaigns and executing their final cards before the country goes to the polls. Last night, we witnessed what some would call the most heated debate yet as part of the election, with a focus on tax, welfare and migration. One question has consistently been on our minds throughout this campaigning period, how do our young people feel about the upcoming election and the information they are receiving?
We know our young people are less likely to vote than any other group. In the 2019 general election, 47% of 18-25-year-olds voted compared to 74% of those aged 65 and above. We are set to see the same trend next week. Our 2024 census found that one in five young people will not vote in this general election and over one quarter of young people think their vote does not matter. This is problematic, our young people are our country’s future and they should feel heard and seen.
It is hardly surprising that young people are frustrated by politics. We know the last few years have been met with severe disruption for our young people. From the ongoing impacts of COVID-19 to climate change, the cost of living crisis and major geopolitical conflicts across the globe. Navigating these changes and difficulties is challenging but throughout this campaign period, we have seen little focus on providing support to young people, particularly the strength and resilience to navigate these issues.
In the 2023 Youth Voice Census, we heard, at length, from young people about their increasing anxiety levels leaving them feeling disconnected with a growing sense of disenfranchisement. It is problematic that young people are feeling disengaged, and as a result not getting the support they need. Worryingly, there is a risk this will make young people feel like they do not belong and be marginalised in the political landscape. Early findings from our 2024 census found that 3 in 10 young people are concerned about the leadership of the country. It is important that our political parties are prioritising young people, making policies for them, and providing the support they need so they feel like they feel connected to our society and can flourish.
In collaboration with NCS, Youth Employment UK, has produced a range of resources to support young people navigate change, how to transition into the workplace and the skills developed when you work with a range of people and explore different views.
Navigating 2024 with strength and resilience – a guide for young people
Handling difficult conversations
Having and hearing difficult conversations at work
How to learn more about other people and their experiences
How to be more empathetic to other people’s views and experiences
Skills you develop when you explore different views
