UK youth unemployment rates recently climbed above the EU’s for the first time since comparable records began in 2000.

It’s in this bleak context that our young people are trying to navigate their financial lives.

More worrying: for those who take the university route (traditionally seen as a reliable way to future proof decent employment and prospects) the average student loan debt stood at £53,000 in April 2025.

Our CEO Muna joined a panel of young people as part of the 1987 Committee and Mental Health Foundation’s Youth Voices Podcast series.

The current reality for young people is one of financial anxiety and uncertainty. Rising rent, transport, everyday expenses, and a real gap between income and aspirations.

The young people involved in the panel brought tenacity and determination – they had real lived experience and solutions that will benefit us all as a society. We were delighted to be part of the conversation!

Check out the 1987 Youtube channel for more information and podcast series and the podcast episodes as they are released.