More than 70% of young adults in the UK express deep concerns about starting their careers in the current economic environment, according to new research from the King’s Trust. The study, which surveyed over 4,000 individuals aged 16 to 25, highlights a troubling sense of anxiety regarding job prospects and economic stability among this demographic.
The findings, published on March 5, 2024, reveal that 73% of respondents feel apprehensive about their future careers, fearing a lack of available jobs that align with their aspirations. The research indicates that more than a quarter of young people in this age group believe they are destined to fail in life, underscoring the growing pressure faced by those entering the labour market. Jonathan Townsend, chief executive of the King’s Trust, emphasized that young people are particularly worried about their future, especially those already confronting significant barriers to employment.
Worries About Economic Conditions and Technological Change
The YouGov survey, sponsored by retailer TK Maxx, highlights that young people’s economic uncertainty is exacerbated by fears surrounding technological advancements. Specifically, 59% of young individuals are worried about the impact of artificial intelligence on their job security, a rise of 10 percentage points from the previous year. Townsend remarked, “We found young people expressing deep fears about how AI, alongside weak job availability and economic instability, is going to affect their long-term employment prospects.”
The survey also indicates that many young individuals feel unprepared for the challenges of the workforce. Approximately 60% reported feeling ill-equipped for employment, while 64% believe that most entry-level positions are insecure. Furthermore, 25% of respondents stated they do not possess the qualifications necessary for their desired careers, and 28% reported a lack of relevant work experience.
Local Job Market Challenges and National Trends
Concerns about job availability are reflected in the experiences of young people across the UK. About 31% cited a lack of local job opportunities as the primary barrier to achieving their career goals, marking a 7% increase from the previous year’s survey. National statistics bolster these findings, showing that around 12.5% of individuals aged 16 to 24—approximately 925,000 young people—were not engaged in education, employment, or training (NEET) last year.
Additionally, a separate analysis by accounting firm PwC ranked the UK 27th out of 38 OECD countries in its Youth Employment Index 2025. This report noted relatively high NEET rates and less favorable transitions from education to employment compared to peer nations, suggesting long-term economic implications associated with high youth inactivity.
The King’s Trust’s report suggests that this generation is entering adulthood amid ongoing economic uncertainty, rapid technological change, and limited job growth. This environment has tangible effects on young people’s confidence and expectations regarding their futures. Townsend stated, “Concerns about employment prospects are inextricably linked to wellbeing.”
In response to the survey findings, Pat McFadden, the UK Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, highlighted the government’s commitment to addressing these issues. He stated, “Our youth guarantee and £1.5 billion investment, backed by leading employers, will create genuine opportunities for young people to earn, learn, and gain valuable work experience. We’re backing the next generation because when they succeed, Britain succeeds.”
