he Prince of Wales has praised the “resilience” of young people during the coronavirus pandemic in a mental health post.
Charles said disruptions caused by the pandemic “have the potential to be devastating in their impact on the wellbeing of young people”.
He delivered a message Friday on the occasion of International Youth Day, an occasion he says is “immensely close to my heart”.
The Queen’s eldest son continued: “Today we all have the opportunity to celebrate the incredible achievements of young people and also reflect on the impact the past few years have had on the younger generation.
“In terms of the adversity they have faced, it is remarkable to see how much resilience and ambition young people continue to show in the face of unprecedented global challenges.”
Charles said: “It is time we all come together to support the world’s future workforce” as the effects of climate change “loom large and are acutely felt”.
He also spoke about his charity, the Prince’s Trust, which has been working for many years to help young people with skills find work.
Recent research from the charity and the Learning and Work Institute found that the proportion of unemployed youth reporting a mental health problem has increased from 11% in 2011 to nearly a third (30%) in 2022.
Charles continued: “There has been much that has eroded the hopes of the younger generation.
“Unfortunately, through conversations with young people, bolstered by my confidence, I have learned how the pandemic has disrupted their crucial transition years on the journey from school to work and from childhood to adulthood.
“From leaving education without the camaraderie of their school friends to lift their spirits to learning new skills online, it is clear that many young people have experienced unique challenges during this formative period of their lives.
“These disruptions can have devastating effects on the well-being of young people and my confidence has found time and again that poor mental health can become a major obstacle as young people try to take their next step into work.”
He added: “Young people who leave education do not feel ready for the world of work. They call on us all to play our part and help them acquire the skills they need for the jobs of the future.”