THE NUMBER of unemployed young people has doubled since March in the West Midlands.
Since lockdown the number of people claiming benefits has risen from 27,900 to 54,300.
And the report by The Prince’s Trust Youth Index shows there is a link between youth unemployment and poor mental health in 16 to 25-year-olds.
The report found 25 per cent of young people in the West Midlands ‘always’ or ‘often’ feel hopeless, and 35 per cent say that they feel powerless to change their future.
It also shows young people are lacking in confidence with 25 per cent of young people in the West Midlands reported as feeling like they are going to fail in life.
Regional Director at The Prince’s Trust Michele Farmer said: “Our Youth Index has shown the link between unemployment and poor mental wellbeing among young people consistently over the years. These findings are more poignant than ever in the face of the current economic crisis and rising joblessness.
“The events of recent months mean thousands of young people across the West Midlands now face the prospect of unemployment, as well as the lasting damage this can have on their wellbeing and future opportunities. If we don’t act now, we risk a ‘lost generation’ of young people destined for long-term joblessness, mental health problems, and poverty.
“At The Prince’s Trust, young people have the opportunity to build their confidence and employability skills through our personal development programmes, which includes our team programme. The programme enables them to learn new skills, make friends and feel a part of their local community in a safe and supported way.”
Call 0800 842 842 to find out more about the programme.
