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.

Financial issues were said to be causing young people to struggle to afford to feed themselves.

More than a third of respondents said their family have had issues paying for or accessing food, with the same number having used food support such as food banks over the past six months.

Rebecca Birkbeck, director of community and shared value at the Co-op, said: “The cost-of-living crisis has had a seismic impact on young people, with many having to prioritise basic needs over long-term career goals and aspirations.

“We’re seeing that many people are unable to make the financial compromises required to set themselves up for future success.

“Apprenticeships are a key means by which we can promote social mobility, and business can play an important role in ensuring everyone has an equal chance to fulfil their potential, no matter who they are or where they are from."

Lynn Perry, chief executive at Barnardo’s, said: “A generation of young people have been disadvantaged as a result of the Covid pandemic, and the impact has been greatest for those growing up in poorer households.

“That’s why we’re working with the Co-op to support young people to access basic needs like food, manage their mental wellbeing, and connect with opportunities for their future."