Key Takeaways
- Many young people in coastal towns feel the need to leave their hometowns to access better job opportunities, education, and social activities.
- The lack of affordable housing, limited job prospects, and limited social activities are major concerns for young people in these areas.
- Some young people feel disconnected from their hometowns due to conservative cultures, limited opportunities, or a sense of inertia.
- Despite the challenges, some young people are determined to stay in their hometowns and make a difference, but often face significant obstacles.
- The brain drain of young people from coastal towns can have long-term effects on the local economy and community.
Introduction to the Issue
The story of Megan, a 24-year-old from the Isle of Wight, is a familiar one in many coastal towns in England. She decided not to attend university and instead secured an apprenticeship, but many of her friends left the island to pursue higher education and never returned. Megan’s situation is unusual among her friendship group, as many of her friends work in seasonal, part-time employment, centered around hospitality and tourism, and struggle to make ends meet. The lack of affordable housing options and limited job prospects are major concerns for young people in these areas.
The Struggle to Stay
Megan’s experience is echoed by Colette, a 23-year-old from Berwick-upon-Tweed, who says that many young people leave because they don’t have opportunities or their friends have already left. Colette returned to Berwick after completing her degree, but found it difficult to find a job in her field and is now considering leaving again to pursue further education. Jacob, a 28-year-old from Gorleston-on-Sea, felt disconnected from his hometown growing up and left to pursue his career as an artist in London. Tom, a 23-year-old from Ilfracombe, believes he would struggle to live and work in his hometown without support from his parents due to the lack of job opportunities and high cost of housing.
The Impact on the Community
The brain drain of young people from coastal towns can have long-term effects on the local economy and community. Marty, a teacher from Eastbourne, has two children and is concerned about the lack of opportunities for young people in her area. She has told her children to leave and pursue higher education, but worries about what the future holds for them. The lack of investment in infrastructure, such as transport links, and the limited job prospects are major concerns for many parents and young people in these areas.
The Desire to Leave
Many young people in coastal towns feel the need to leave to access better job opportunities, education, and social activities. The prevailing narrative that encourages young people to "escape" their hometowns can be frustrating, as it implies that there is something wrong with staying. However, for many young people, leaving is a necessary step to achieve their goals and pursue their passions. The sense of disconnection and inertia that can come from living in a small town with limited opportunities can be overwhelming, leading many to feel that they need to get out to make a better life for themselves.
The Importance of Support
Despite the challenges, some young people are determined to stay in their hometowns and make a difference. However, they often face significant obstacles, including limited job prospects, high cost of housing, and lack of social activities. Support from family, friends, and the community can make a big difference in helping young people stay and thrive in their hometowns. Investing in infrastructure, such as transport links, and providing opportunities for education and job training can also help to retain young people and attract new talent to these areas.
Conclusion
The stories of Megan, Colette, Jacob, Tom, and Marty highlight the challenges faced by young people in coastal towns in England. The lack of affordable housing, limited job prospects, and limited social activities are major concerns, leading many to feel that they need to leave to access better opportunities. However, with the right support and investment, it is possible for young people to stay and thrive in their hometowns, making a positive impact on their communities and contributing to the local economy.
