Young people lack confidence in UK education system, poll shows

Fewer than one in five young adults believe the UK’s education system equips them with the skills needed for a good quality of life, according to new polling.

The survey of 18- to 30-year-olds by the Adam Smith Institute found just 16% of respondents felt the system adequately prepared them for adulthood. A further 43% said it “not really” or “definitely does not” provide the necessary skills, while 56% offered more cautious support.

The poll, part of the institute’s Anxious Generation series, also revealed widespread self-reported mental health issues among young people. Seven in 10 said they either currently have, or personally know someone their age who has, a mental health problem. Only 26% reported no such experience.

Outlook on the UK’s future was evenly split, with 38% optimistic and 38% pessimistic. A further 21% said they felt neutral.

Political affiliation appeared to shape sentiment. Among those polled, 46% of Conservative voters said they felt optimistic, compared with 43% of Labour voters and 31% of those supporting Reform UK. Reform UK voters were the most pessimistic, with 44% expressing negative views.

Marjorie Wallace, chief executive of mental health charity SANE, said: “We are concerned at the significant increase in mental illness experienced by today’s young people with far too many not receiving support when they need it.

“Even when identified at school, college or by health professionals young adults can face such long waits that it may be months before they receive an assessment or help and their condition deteriorates.”

Emma Schubart, data and insights manager at the Adam Smith Institute, added: “Young Britons are telling us two things: mental-health issues are widely self-reported among their peers, and the quality of schooling is lacking.

“With optimism fracturing, parties that want to win 18–30s need a serious plan for growth, skills and services, not just slogans.”