Young people living in England's coastal towns are facing a crisis of deprivation, poor mental health, and limited opportunities, according to new data and firsthand accounts. The Guardian is launching a year-long series, Against the Tide, to amplify their voices and explore solutions.
In Weston-super-Mare, 21-year-old Ceilidh describes a stark contrast between the tidy seafront and the neglected estates. 'There are potholes everywhere, shop fronts are falling down, and there's mould in many of the houses,' she says. 'Most people who grew up on the Bourneville estate are told things like “you’ll never amount to anything”.'
Data from the University of Essex's Centre for Coastal Communities shows self-reported mental distress is three times higher among young people in some deprived coastal areas compared to inland peers. Dr Emily Murray, the centre's director, notes: 'One reason might be that they are not demanding help, or if they are, their voices are not being heard.'
In Southend-on-Sea, 19-year-olds Penny and Archie feel despondent. 'All the shops are closing, crime is getting worse,' says Penny. Archie adds: 'When I was younger there were youth programmes and places to go. Now you don't see these things any more.' He plans to leave when he can.
Stefania Fiorentino, co-author of a report on 'left-behind' coastal places from Cambridge and UCL, says young people are disproportionately affected by the lack of investment. The Guardian series will continue to document their experiences over the next 12 months.
