Article

This year’s State of the North report highlights how regional inequality exacerbates the growing challenges facing many young northerners.

This is a pivotal moment for young people. The current generation of young people (Gen Z) has grown up in extremely challenging circumstances. Many are seeing their opportunities and chance of intergenerational social mobility shrinking.

We are also seeing growing concerns about young people’s satisfaction with democracy and its ability to deliver for them. This is a threat to the long-term health of our democracy and society.

While these challenges impact young people across the country, this is especially true in many areas of the north of England, where young people are often further disadvantaged by our country’s deep and persistent regional inequalities.

Regional divides in their starting baseline, their opportunity for a good life, and their chance to be heard in politics are a barrier to many being able to reach their full potential. This is damaging for young northerners’ chances and democratic content, as well as our region’s future success.