Why we cannot let Covid-19 compromise young people’s future health

Yet hidden underneath this stark reality, lockdown and the economic downturn could be entrenching the same social disadvantages that has caused so many excess deaths. The current Covid-19 pandemic is an immediate health crisis. But the implications for future health caused by the gaps in employment and education for young people are potentially storing up long term health implications for many.

While the government works tirelessly towards protecting the nation’s health today, the future health of young people – our nation’s greatest asset – must also remain a top priority.

Between the ages of 12 and 24, many factors shape young people’s future health, from where you live and work to the relationships you build with others. Most will aspire to move through education into employment, become independent and leave home. This period provides an important window of opportunity for young people to build the resources for a strong, healthy future, and lay strong foundations in the wider determinants of health.