Young People’s views and experiences of COVID-19 and Lockdowns in Northamptonshire

Healthwatch Northamptonshire undertook research on young people’s views and experiences of Covid-19 and lockdowns. They spoke to 1,173 young people aged 11 to 19 across Northamptonshire during early 2021. More than half of respondents said their emotional wellbeing or mental health had worsened during lockdown, with older young people, girls and those identifying as non-binary reporting the greatest impact. Many struggled with isolation, missing friends, disrupted routines and uncertainty about education. 

Most young people felt safe at home and were able to access up-to-date information about Covid-19, mainly through television, parents and social media. However, a quarter found information confusing and one in five said it made them feel anxious or worried. While most respondents had not needed mental health support, those who did often reported difficulties accessing services, long waits and a lack of face-to-face support. Many also felt less likely to seek help during the pandemic because services were harder to access and they had less support from trusted adults, schools and friends. 

Experiences of education were mixed. Most young people felt they received the right amount of contact and support from their school, college or university, but many reported difficulties with online learning, lack of teacher contact, concerns about exams and the loss of support services such as school counsellors. Forty-four per cent said their emotional wellbeing improved when they returned to in-person education.

Healthwatch Northamptonshire recommended ensuring information for young people is clear and accessible, maintaining face-to-face support options alongside digital services, improving access to physical and mental health care during periods of disruption, and providing additional support for groups most affected by lockdown. The report also highlighted the importance of safeguarding, emotional wellbeing support and ensuring young people can continue to access trusted relationships, education and social networks during future emergencies.