St Pauls Young People in 2011

Young people are undergoing a journey from childhood to adulthood, developing the knowledge and skills required for adult life (Miles et al. 2002; Spence, 2005). These transitions often create stress and anxiety (Coleman, 2007) and, if not managed well, can lead to long term social, economic, psychological and health problems (DfES, 2006; Young Foundation 2009). Young people are now facing more difficult transitions to adulthood than ever before as a result of insecure employment and high costs of living (Jeffrey and McDowell, 2004). A recent UK poll (Princes Trust, 2009) found that: 20% of YP felt like crying ‘often’ or ‘always’ and 47% felt regularly stressed 37% of those not in education, employment or training (NEETs) felt depressed 40% of YP did not have anyone they could talk to about their problems 28% said they didn’t have enough support in life in general Economically disadvantaged young people, as can be found in St. Pauls, are more likely to have difficult transitions and ‘fast track’ into adulthood, leaving education earlier or becoming parents early (Spence, 2005). There is a need to raise youth incomes, provide adequate housing and give emotional support for the most vulnerable YP (France, 2008).

Activities for YP were the top priority in a recent local survey (SPU, 2009).

2.3 Racism: There is a much higher proportion of black and minority ethnic (BME) young people living in St.Pauls than Bristol, as a whole (approx. 43%, compared to 8%) (see Appendix 1, Table 1). Therefore, it is likely that many local YP will face racism (direct and institutionalised), which can undermine their self-esteem and limit their opportunities in terms of education, employment, income etc. (NLT, 2006). Racism also manifests in hate crime which has increased in Bristol in recent years (iCoCo, 2009).

2.4 Unemployment: There continues to be high levels of unemployment in the St. Pauls area (see Appendix 1, Tables 2, 8 and 10). According to the latest figures: 21% of St. Pauls residents are not working, twice the local average of 10% More than three times the proportion of YP in St. Pauls are claiming out of work benefits than the Bristol average However, the picture may now be even worse as unemployment has increased substantially over the last few years, as a result of the recession and austerity measures.

All young people are now facing difficulties in finding work, with the national average 6