Buying a home or moving into a rented property is increasingly difficult for many young people. This summer, BBC Your Voice reported that over 40% of 25-year-olds are living with their parents. Many young individuals are relying on the so-called Bank of Mum and Dad to help cover rent, bills, and other living costs. Citizens Advice indicates that more people are struggling to afford everyday essentials without family support. Three women shared their experiences of navigating life without this safety net.
Eleanor Bell, 23, from East Riding of Yorkshire, has a first-class degree but is struggling to find work. She has applied for numerous jobs but has had only a few unsuccessful interviews. Currently, she lives in her boyfriend's home outside Penistone in South Yorkshire, which helps with living costs, but the rural location complicates her job search as she does not have a driving license. She noted, "I know a lot of people who've got jobs because their mum or dad worked there before them." Eleanor expressed sadness about her situation, stating, "It's like everyone in their 20s is having to tread water, but I haven't been given a buoyancy aid."
Official figures show that 39% of care leavers aged 19 to 21 in England are not in education, employment, or training, compared to around 13% of young people overall. Eleanor emphasized the emotional support she lacks, saying, "You don't have someone to hold you and go, 'Look I've done the same thing, but don't worry.'"
Sam Barrett, 24, from Sunderland, is studying part-time while caring for her mother. She left her full-time job in hospitality to take on this role but finds that the financial support she receives, including Carer's Allowance and Universal Credit, does not cover her expenses. Sam remarked, "Not a lot is coming in, you only get so much being a carer. I don't buy any luxuries, I rarely do anything fun."
Ezgi Polat, 23, from Cambridgeshire, lost her job a year ago and fell behind on rent and bills without family support. She turned to Citizens Advice for assistance after accumulating around £4,000 in debt. Ezgi explained that her parents were also struggling financially, which left her without help. After receiving support, her rent arrears were cleared, and she is now working in a warehouse.
A recent survey by Citizens Advice found that 36% of adults are behind on at least one bill, with the figure rising to 57% for those in their 20s. A government spokesperson stated that they are investing £2.5 billion to create opportunities for young people through apprenticeships, job grants, and training. However, Luke Young, head of policy at Citizens Advice, believes young people without family support are facing increasing challenges due to rising costs and a tough job market.