This More or Less podcast episode investigates the long-term effects of COVID-19 lockdowns on young people in England, examining various age groups from preschoolers to university students and those entering the workforce. The analysis reveals mixed results: while some studies show a recovery in educational attainment after an initial dip, particularly in writing, others highlight persistent issues like increased school absenteeism, especially among disadvantaged students, and a widening attainment gap. Concerningly, a significant and sustained increase in mental health problems among young people, particularly young women, is documented, with the proportion of those with probable mental health disorders rising substantially since 2017. The podcast concludes that while some young people thrived, many faced challenges, and more comprehensive data collection is needed to fully understand the long-term impacts.
