Report reveals rising pressure on young people

RISING pressure from a focus on academic performance in schools and unstable zerohour contracts are some of the key issues facing young people growing up in Bristol, new research has revealed.

In a report by the Health Foundation, A Place to Grow, which is part of its major UK-wide Young people’s future health inquiry, the independent charity warns that a lack of opportunities at a local level is putting many young people’s future health at risk.

More than 130 young Bristolians took part in the research, as part of a wider inquiry which examined five distinct areas across the UK ranging from rural, sparsely populated places to inner city, ethnically diverse areas to understand what life is like for young people today.

Young people took on the role of ‘peer researcher’, running workshops in their communities and then sharing findings with decision makers from the area in a meeting chaired by Bristol’s deputy mayor Councillor Asher Craig.

Other issues identified in Bristol as being potentially harmful for young people’s future health included expensive or inaccessible transport options creating a barrier to important services and development activities, and the current economic climate putting pressure on families.

From the ages of 12 to 24 many factors shape young people’s future health. Most will aspire to move through education into employment, become independent and leave home.

This period provides a window of opportunity for young people to build the mental and physical resources they need for a strong, healthy future.

Health Foundation director of health Jo Bibby said: “Whether a young person grows up in a way that supports them to have a healthy future is a complex issue, but one which it is essential to address.

“Young people today face opportunities and challenges that are vastly different to those of their parents or carers.

“Our towns and cities have an untapped resource of engaged and optimistic young people who have the potential to make vast contributions to their communities if given the chance.

“However, this new research suggests that the health and wellbeing of young people in Bristol and across the UK is already being eroded, with inadequate support systems and increased pressures on mental health at home and school. This means many are facing a potential future of poor health.

“Our recommendations for change, due in 2019 will demonstrate what’s needed to ensure the next generation is given the right opportunity to flourish.’

The inquiry is a two-year research and engagement programme exploring the support 12–24 year-olds need to enter adulthood with the core building blocks for a healthy future, namely a place to call home, potential for secure and rewarding work, and supportive relationships with their friends, family and community.

It will culminate in a series of policy recommendations in 2019.