British youth see a surge in hope and positivity
The latest data from #BeeWell brings a positive story for the mental health and wellbeing of young people in Greater Manchester. The survey, conducted with over 38,000 young people aged 12-15 in the region, shows an increase in hope and optimism for the future, reminiscent of pre-pandemic levels.
However, the results also highlight inequalities in wellbeing across gender and sexuality. The survey found that 83% of young people in Greater Manchester felt hopeful and optimistic about their future in 2023, compared to 72% during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
The #BeeWell programme, launched in 2021 by The University of Manchester, The Gregson Family Foundation, and Anna Freud, aims to make the wellbeing of young people a priority. The survey has been completed by over 85,000 young people so far.
Despite the overall positive outlook, LGBTQ+ young people reported the lowest life satisfaction. The survey revealed disparities in emotional difficulties, with lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender young people facing higher levels of challenges compared to heterosexual and cisgender peers.
The programme is now collaborating with schools and community partners to address these findings and provide support to those in need. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is also working to offer opportunities for personal development and enrichment to young people in areas with lower wellbeing scores.
The hope is to give all young people the tools they need to succeed and improve their wellbeing and optimism for the future. The findings from the #BeeWell survey will help guide efforts to support children and young people in their mental health and wellbeing.
