Cost of Living: Support for Young People

Expressed concern about the impact of rising costs on young people and children, highlighting that nearly half of children supported by Barnardo's have had to choose between feeding themselves or paying bills in the past year. Mentioned a report from Migrant Voice stating visa fees cost £2,500 every two and a half years for families, which limits choices for their children. Criticised government policies such as the staged minimum wage increase and discrimination against young people through Universal Credit. Highlighted Scotland's initiatives to support young people including free bus travel, greater free school meal entitlements, and the young person's guarantee.

She pointed out that despite interventions from the Scottish Government, too many children are still living in poverty due to decisions made by the UK Government. She highlighted various measures taken by the Scottish Government for young people and argued for independence.

She questioned why young people were being left behind by the benefits system, unequal wages, and universal credit not covering living costs adequately.

Mr. Murray highlighted the challenges young people face due to the cost of living crisis, emphasizing the impact of Conservative policies over twelve years and recent economic turmoil. He noted that mortgage availability for first-time buyers has been severely impacted by government actions, with more than 40% of available mortgages withdrawn from the market, leaving many unable to achieve home ownership. Additionally, Mr. Murray expressed concern about rental insecurity under current laws and urged the Government to commit to a rental reform Bill. He also discussed food poverty among young people, citing data that showed one in four had skipped meals due to financial constraints and 14% had used food banks within the past year.

She highlighted the need for the Government to increase universal credit in line with inflation. She mentioned that many young people and children in her constituency are experiencing food insecurity, with some going without breakfast and lunch.

He agreed with the previous speaker's points about students and their financial struggles. He noted research showing over half of university students were considering whether they could continue their studies due to pressures. He pointed out that students are unable to access certain types of support available to other low-income groups, such as pensioners in Germany. He highlighted that students, particularly those from poorer backgrounds, were at a disadvantage due to the salary threshold for maximum loans being frozen since 2008. He suggested adjusting this threshold to help more disadvantaged students access loans.

She emphasized that young people, especially students, are facing severe financial pressures due to inflation and a 7.5% cut in maintenance loans. She noted that nearly two-thirds of UK students felt their mental health had been negatively affected. Ms. Hobhouse intervened to emphasize the importance of investing in young people as a means to drive economic growth.