LockdownLowdown - what young people in Scotland are thinking about COVID-19 (April 2020)
The Scottish Youth Parliament, YouthLink Scotland, Young Scot
19 May 2020
Survey of young people from across Scotland on their concerns about COVID-19. The survey took places from 3rd – 17th April 2020. The survey received 2,421 completed responses.
Key Findings Young people’s concerns regarding the impact of coronavirus (COVID19)
- Over two fifths (42%) stated that they were Extremely or Moderately concerned about school, college and university closures. Respondents expressed more concern regarding exams and coursework, with around half (49%) stating that they were Moderately or Extremely concerned.
- Of those who answered a question about their employment situation, over a third (36%) stated that they were Moderately or Extremely concerned.
- Of those who answered a question about their financial situation, almost a third (30%) said that they are Moderately or Extremely concerned.
- A quarter (25%) rated themselves as Moderately or Extremely concerned about their own physical wellbeing. However, two fifths (41%) said there are Moderately or Extremely concerned about the wellbeing of others.
- This pattern was mirrored when respondents were asked about mental wellbeing. Almost two fifths (39%) stated that they felt Moderately or Extremely concerned about their own mental wellbeing. When asked about the mental wellbeing of others, 46% stated that they felt Moderately or Extremely concerned about the wellbeing of others.
- When asked about the impact on their social relationships with family or friends, two fifths (40%) rated themselves as Moderately or Somewhat concerned.
- When asked about their ability to access their rights as a young person, over half of the respondents (58%) stated that they had some concern over their rights.
- When asked about their ability to look out for or care for others, almost a third (30%) rated themselves as Moderately or Somewhat concerned.
- Almost two thirds of respondents (61%) stated that they were Moderately or Extremely concerned about the impact of coronavirus (COVID-19) on their future.
10.Respondents were asked to provide examples of any other issues that they may be concerned about regarding coronavirus. There were 872 responses which were categorised into 25 main themes. The most common themes were further educational, economic and social impacts as well as referencing the practicalities of being in lockdown or social distancing.
Key findings summary below.
Last modified on 19 May 2020
