Millennials now do have things to moan about

In the era BC (Before Corona), I frequently expressed frustration at millennials – they were constantly moaning, it seemed, about things not being “safe” or “comfortable” enough, and lecturing everyone about sexuality. They complained about the cost of housing, while refusing to save. Many employers noted their entitlement.

Now, in the High Corona era, the younger generation really do have things to moan about.

All the attention has been on the over-70s suffering under extended ultra-lockdown, while the much longer-term plight of the young has been largely overlooked. They are going to suffer much more than a cohort of prosperous 70-year-olds with houses, gardens and decent pensions.

A vast generation divide is opening. Think of those for whom the university experience has been ripped from under their feet. If they want to continue, or even finish, their degrees, they will be charged the same fees for a totally deficient experience. If university is about one thing, it’s being as socially non-distanced as possible.

Students finishing their final years aren’t being tested properly because exam halls are verboten, so this year’s graduates will be regarded with even more uncertainty by employers.

That’s if there are any employers still looking. Graduates will face one of the worst job markets in history, with our economy about to be decimated by what the Bank of England suggested last week could be the worst economic disaster in 300 years.

Getting a career foothold in a post-corona world is going to be hard at best, and impossible for many. The toll on self-esteem, not to mention finances, is going to spiral for years.

The young may have their health, but when it comes to luck and money, they’ve been sorely deprived.