Lack of transport choices risks leaving young people behind, researchers warn
A team from the University of the West of England have been looking into the widening gap, showing a lack of transport options for young people
Researchers are warning a lack of transport choices risks leaving young people behind.
UWE in Bristol's worked on a first-of-its-kind study, which found 16-to-24 year olds took around 20 per cent fewer trips compared to working age adults.
They say transport barriers mean young people can't access work, education and other social opportunities because of transport barriers.
The report by UWE walking and cycling charity Sustrans is the first of its kind to focus on this age group who are entering adulthood.
Funded by the Health Foundation, it presents new analyses of national travel data, combined with insights from in-depth interviews with young people leaving school and college.
Dr Kiron Chatterjee, Professor of Travel Behaviour at the UWE Bristol said: “There has been little research on the ways that young people manage to get around using the transport system and the barriers they experience.
“This report is a crucial step in showing how young people, a key demographic for everyone’s hopes of achieving net zero, are affected by the transport system in place. The situation for young people is worsening and we need to see a change in transport policy that prevents further decline. The findings make the way forward very clear.”
National travel data showed 16–24-year-olds without car access are more than twice as likely have a 'low level of trip making' compared counterparts who are the main driver of car.
Those from households in the lowest income quintile are 1.4 times more likely to have a low level of mobility.
Recommendations made through the report include:
- Providing long term dedicated investment for walking, cycling and public transport
- Devolving powers to local transport authorities to take greater control of buses
- Providing financial support for young people to buy a cycle
Tim Burns, Head of Policy at Sustrans, said: “This report shows national and local transport policies are denying young people opportunities to education and work. This has a knock-on effect on our future economy and in our communities, which will be profoundly damaging.
“Investment will be key to removing barriers, especially those identified by young people, including improving the quality of public transport, and access to cycles and safe cycle routes.”
Jo Bibby, Director of Health at the Health Foundation, said: “This timely report shows how that young people are being left behind by transport policy decisions. Experiences at this age – such as job and educational opportunities – are crucial to enable young people to thrive, both now and in the long-term. It is disappointing that a lack of public transport and active travel options are denying many young people opportunities to work, socialise and access public services, all of which we know are important for good health.
“It is important that national and local authorities take this opportunity to act, beginning with ensuring that the needs of young people are recognised and prioritised in transport policy making. This must include a prioritisation of active travel infrastructure and public transport, to support healthier lives and a healthier economy.”