Let Them Talk.

The Problem

An overstretched and exam-focused education system, mental health crises, harmful algorithms, AI, and the noise of culture wars and misinformation are shaping young lives in ways that undermine resilience, creativity, and connection.

Many feel disenfranchised, ignored by those in power, and are attracted to extremes online.

With the voting age lowered to 16, a new generation is entering civic life—casting their first votes in general elections amid these unprecedented pressures.

Let Them Talk.

Statistics

Mental Health and Wellbeing

  • 1 in 5 (aged 8–25) had a probable mental health condition in 2023; rising since 2017, especially ages 17–19¹

  • Emergency mental health referrals ↑10% (2023–2024); many stuck on NHS waiting lists²

  • Suicide = leading cause of death for ages 5–35; ~75% boys/young men³

  • Self-harm prevalence: 32.8% of 17–24-year-olds; rises to 69.5% with probable mental health conditions⁴

  • UK 15-year-olds’ life satisfaction = lowest in Europe⁵

  • Largest UK socio-economic wellbeing gap in Europe between most and least advantaged 15-year-olds⁶

Social Media and Civic Life

  • 76% experienced upsetting online content (fake news, hate speech, sexual content)¹

  • 53% used AI chatbots in 2023; curious but cautious about future work²

  • 48% of 16-18s admit to being addicted to social media³

  • 70% of children worried about climate change; 75% want stronger government action; 60% link climate change to mental health⁴

  • 49% (ages 16–21) dissatisfied with UK democracy; higher in 16–18 (52%)⁵

Our Vision

Get in Touch

Questions about our work or how you can get involved? If you, your school, community group or organisation would like to discuss working with us, we’d love to hear from you: