Young People Are Feeling More Disconnected Than Ever — Why?

Concerns are growing about the number of young people who feel disconnected from their communities, opportunities and support networks.

Recent research and sector reports have highlighted a combination of factors contributing to this trend, including the decline of youth services, rising living costs, changing social habits and increasing concerns around loneliness and mental wellbeing.

For professionals working across children’s services, social care and education, the issue is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.

The Decline of Youth Services

For generations, youth clubs, community centres and local youth projects provided young people with safe places to socialise, develop skills and build relationships outside school and home.

However, many of these services have reduced significantly over the past decade.

According to analysis from YMCA England & Wales, local authority spending on youth services in England has fallen by more than 70% in real terms since 2010. Research from the National Youth Agency and YMCA has also reported the closure of hundreds of youth centres and the loss of thousands of youth work roles during this period.

Recent analysis found that the number of local authority-run youth centres in England fell by more than 50% between 2011–12 and 2022–23.

Many sector leaders have expressed concern that the loss of these community spaces has reduced opportunities for young people to connect with peers, trusted adults and local support networks.

The Cost of Living and Access to Opportunities

The rising cost of living has also affected access to activities, hobbies and community programmes.

Youth organisations have reported concerns that some young people are finding it harder to access opportunities that previous generations may have taken for granted, including sports, arts programmes, social activities and community groups.

Research published this year by youth charity Roundhouse found that many young adults feel they have fewer opportunities to build confidence, develop skills and access creative opportunities compared with previous generations. Participants highlighted concerns around affordability and reduced access to community spaces.

Social Media Versus Real Connection

Young people today are more digitally connected than any previous generation.

Social media can provide opportunities for communication, learning and community building. However, experts continue to debate whether increased online interaction always translates into meaningful social connection.

Researchers suggest that while digital platforms can help maintain relationships, they do not necessarily replace in-person social interaction and community participation. Studies examining loneliness in younger people consistently highlight the importance of belonging, community engagement and meaningful relationships.

The challenge is not simply whether young people are connected online, but whether they feel connected in their everyday lives.

The Impact on Mental Wellbeing

Loneliness and social isolation have increasingly been recognised as important factors influencing mental wellbeing.

Research has shown that young people can be particularly vulnerable to feelings of loneliness, especially during periods of transition, uncertainty or reduced social support.

While loneliness does not automatically lead to mental health difficulties, experts recognise that strong social connections can play an important role in supporting emotional wellbeing and resilience.

For many young people, having access to trusted adults, friendship groups, community activities and supportive environments remains an important protective factor.

Why This Matters for Social Care Providers

For organisations supporting children and young people, the issue has significant implications.

Many young people accessing social care services may already face additional challenges relating to:

• Family breakdown
• Bereavement
• Disability
• Mental health needs
• Placement changes
• Educational disruption
• Social exclusion

As a result, opportunities to build positive relationships and participate in community life can be particularly important.

Providers across fostering, residential childcare, supported accommodation, leaving care services and family support services increasingly recognise the value of helping young people develop connections beyond formal care settings.

Activities, clubs, volunteering opportunities, sports programmes and community groups can all play an important role in helping young people build confidence, develop friendships and strengthen their sense of belonging.

Coming Soon: The Daily Round Community Connections Directory

To support providers working with children, young people and adults across health and social care, The Daily Round will be developing a dedicated Community Connections Directory.

The directory will bring together information on community groups, youth activities, volunteering opportunities, social programmes, wellbeing initiatives and support services that may help reduce isolation and strengthen social connection.

Our aim is to create a practical resource that helps organisations identify opportunities that support participation, confidence, wellbeing and community engagement.

Because sometimes the most powerful support comes not from a service, but from helping someone find a place where they belong.

Looking Ahead

While technology, changing lifestyles and economic pressures continue to shape modern life, the importance of human connection remains unchanged.

As policymakers, youth organisations and service providers consider how best to support future generations, many agree on one thing: creating opportunities for young people to connect, participate and belong remains one of the most important investments a community can make.