Cost-of-living putting youngsters off university as they prepare for results day

13 August 2023 , 23:01

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A report claims young people are turning away from higher education because of financial pressures (Image: PA)

Young people are turning away from higher education amid the continuing cost-of-living crisis, research suggests today.

A study by the Co-op and children's charity Barnardo's indicated a shift in how youngsters prioritise basic needs. A survey of more than 5,000, 10 to 25 year olds across the UK uncovered the "stark impact" the rising cost-of-living is having on young people's access to food, mental wellbeing and opportunities for the future.

The report comes as youngsters prepare to collect A-level, T-level and BTEC results on Thursday. More than a third of those quizzed said their family have had issues buying or accessing food, with the same number having turned to foodbanks or other handouts over the past six months.

Youngsters will collect their results on Thursday (PA)

Co-op community director Rebecca Birkbeck said: "The cost of living has had a seismic impact on young people, with many having to prioritise basic needs over long-term career goals and aspirations. We're seeing that many people are unable to make the financial compromises required to set themselves up for future success.

"Apprenticeships are a key means by which we can promote social mobility, and business can play an important role in ensuring everyone has an equal chance to fulfil their potential, no matter who they are or where they are from. Whilst we see first-hand the positive impact apprenticeships have on young careers at Co-op, it's not fair that those from poorer backgrounds feel their options for further education are being limited due to the cost of living.”

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Barnardo's chief executive Lynn Perry said: "A generation of young people have been disadvantaged as a result of the Covid pandemic and the impact has been greatest for those growing up in poorer households. That's why we're working with the Co-op to support young people to access basic needs like food, manage their mental wellbeing and connect with opportunities for their future. Covid widened the gap between what the most and least disadvantaged pupils in the UK achieve in school and we must not let the cost-of-living crisis be a further barrier to young people pursuing their ambitions - whether that's higher education or a work-based option."

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Ben Glaze