This report, commissioned by the Secretary of State for the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) in November 2024, offers a comprehensive and direct insight into the lives of young people in England aged 10 to 21, and up to 25 for those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEN/D). It has directly informed ‘Youth Matters: Your National Youth Strategy’ by revealing the realities of young people’s lives, as well as their challenges and inspiring aspirations for the future. While the report primarily focuses on England, it clarifies when data encompasses the broader UK.

The report draws on extensive primary and secondary research, including a National Youth Strategy Survey of over 14,000 young people, covering the ages 10 to 21 and up to 25 for those with SEN/D. It also uses information gathered from focus groups, discussions and workshops with Ministers, officials and youth sector organisations that were delivered as part of the ‘Deliver You’ campaign in partnership with Savanta, My Life, My Say, the #iwill Movement (Volunteering Matters and UK Youth) and their Youth Collaborators.
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