YOUNG people are turning away from higher education amid the continuing cost-of-living crisis, new research suggests.

A study by the Co-op and children’s charity Barnardo’s indicated a shift in financially prioritising basic needs.

A survey of over 5,000 10 to 25-year-olds across the UK uncovered the “stark impact” that the rising cost-of-living is having on young people’s access to food, mental wellbeing, and opportunities for the future.