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In recent years, coastal communities in England and Wales have become emblematic of a growing crisis among young people, characterised by poverty, lack of opportunities, and social isolation. With a staggering 73% reduction in youth service funding over the past decade and nearly one million individuals aged 16 to 24 classified as not in education, employment, or training (NEET), the outlook for many seaside towns appears increasingly bleak. This ongoing challenge is the focus of the ‘Against the Tide’ project, which aims to elevate the voices of these young individuals and explore the systemic issues they face.
The Landscape of Despair
For many, the idyllic image of coastal living—sunny beaches, playful children, and family holidays—stands in stark contrast to the reality experienced by young people in these areas. Instead of opportunity and hope, the sea often represents a barrier, cutting them off from vital resources. The ongoing economic decline has led to a significant number of youth feeling abandoned and disheartened, often labelled unfairly by media narratives as “lazy” or “feral.”
A recent report highlights that nine out of ten of the most deprived neighbourhoods in England are coastal, with towns like Blackpool and Hastings among the hardest hit. Young people in these areas frequently contend with deteriorating public services and limited access to education and job prospects, leaving them feeling disconnected and undervalued.
Amplifying Youth Voices
The ‘Against the Tide’ initiative, led by the Guardian’s Seascape team, aims to shine a light on the realities faced by young people in coastal towns. Over the next year, the project will travel across various seaside locations, gathering testimonies from those aged 16 to 25 to illuminate their experiences and aspirations. The goal is to empower these individuals, placing their narratives at the forefront of discussions about necessary changes in policy and community support.
The project also seeks to recognise and showcase the positive contributions young people make to their communities, highlighting the importance of youth-led initiatives. For example, the House of Wingz arts hub in Blackpool has provided a vital creative outlet for local youth, helping them to develop skills and build a sense of belonging.
Bridging the Gap
A significant theme emerging from discussions with young people is their feeling of exclusion from decision-making processes that directly affect their lives. Eleanor, a 23-year-old from Morecambe, expressed the need for greater inclusion: “If people just chatted to the young people here and welcomed them to more decision-making events, it would make this a much better place.” This sentiment resonates with many, as young individuals yearn for their voices to be heard and their ideas acknowledged.
One notable effort to bridge this gap involved a group of young people presenting their experiences to Members of Parliament through the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Coastal Communities. This engagement not only facilitated dialogue but also resulted in the establishment of the Young People on the Coast Action Network, aimed at fostering greater involvement of youth in local policy-making.
The Need for Structural Change
Despite some promising initiatives, the challenges remain substantial. Young people across coastal areas report a consistent lack of employment opportunities, exacerbated by inadequate access to transport and resources for job searches. Archie, a 23-year-old from Weston-super-Mare, highlighted the need for more robust support systems: “There should be more means testing to allow those from poorer families to keep hold of a bus pass.” This is particularly crucial for those seeking employment beyond their immediate vicinity.
Moreover, recent government policy efforts, including the introduction of youth hubs, have sparked hope for potential change. However, many worry that these initiatives will not adequately address the specific needs of coastal communities. Avril Keating, a professor of youth studies, emphasised the necessity of a cohesive strategy that integrates various government departments and prioritises young people’s needs.
Why it Matters
The plight of young people in coastal towns is not merely an issue of local concern; it reflects broader systemic failures that require urgent attention. As these communities grapple with shrinking resources and rising unemployment, the potential for a generation to thrive is at risk. By amplifying youth voices and advocating for meaningful change, we can help foster a future where young people can remain in their communities, contribute positively, and envision a brighter tomorrow. Investing in their well-being and opportunities is not just an act of compassion; it is a crucial step toward building resilient and vibrant coastal communities.