The Guardian is seeking to hear from individuals under the age of 25 who have been actively searching for employment for a year or more without success. This callout specifically targets a diverse range of young adults, encompassing university graduates, school leavers who opted not to pursue higher education, and those who have undertaken apprenticeships. If you fall into this category and have faced prolonged unemployment despite diligent efforts, your insights are invaluable.
Rising Unemployment Rates Among Youth
Recent data from the Office for National Statistics reveals a concerning trend: unemployment climbed to 5.2% in the final quarter of 2025, marking the highest rate since early 2021. Young people are disproportionately affected, with 16% of those aged 16 to 24 unemployed, a figure that represents nearly an 11-year high. This surge highlights the acute challenges faced by the younger generation in today's labour market.
Impact of Extended Job Searches
We are keen to understand the personal toll of this extended job search. How has this period of unemployment influenced your daily life and mental well-being? Consider the number of applications you have submitted and the nature of these processes. What strategies are you employing to sustain yourself financially during this time? Additionally, we are interested in the perspectives of your friends and family regarding your situation.
How to Participate
To share your experience, please use the provided form. Participants must be aged 18 or over and have the option to remain anonymous. All responses are securely encrypted, with access restricted to the Guardian team. The data collected will be used solely for this feature and will be deleted once no longer needed. For further details on secure communication methods, refer to our tips guide.
If you encounter any issues with the form, assistance is available. Please review the terms of service and privacy policy for comprehensive information on participation guidelines and data handling practices.
