YOUNG people face a “growing crisis” amid financial barriers and a sharp decline in community spaces such as youth clubs and community centres, new research has found.

A study of more than 1,000 people aged 18-30 by the Roundhouse arts venue and youth charity, published today, paints a “worrying picture” of life for young people in Britain. 

Half of respondents cited a lack of safe spaces as one of the biggest barriers to feeling connected to a community, alongside the cost of activities and transport. 

Opportunities to meet, create and collaborate in person have sharply declined, the research found.

The Roundhouse said its findings came against a backdrop of cuts in local authority spending on youth services in England. 

Recent figures showed the number of young people not in education, employment or training has topped one million – and the charity said part of the challenge may be the disappearance of spaces nurturing confidence and skills.

Roundhouse chief executive Marcus Davey, who steps down from his role today, said: “This research paints a worrying picture of life for many young people in Britain today.

“Too often, opportunities to build belonging, confidence and creativity are shaped by cost, postcode and access – and at a time when the government is rightly championing the growth of the UK’s creative industries, we must ensure no young person is left behind.

“Places like the Roundhouse are part of the solution, providing safe, affordable spaces where young people can connect, develop skills, improve wellbeing and access life-changing opportunities.

“No young person’s future should depend on where they grew up or what they can afford.”