New research from OnSide’s Generation Isolation 2025 report reveals a worrying trend: 33% of young people in the West Midlands experience high or very high levels of loneliness, and 40% say they don’t have enough opportunities to meet new people outside school.

While 75% of young people spend most of their free time on screens, half say that spending time with friends in person makes them feel most connected. Yet only 12% of young people surveyed attend a youth club—even though 94% of those who do say it has made a positive difference to their lives.

At The Way Youth Zone in Wolverhampton, we’re working hard to change that. Every week, more than 800 young people come through our doors to enjoy sports, arts, mentoring, and social activities—all in a safe, welcoming space where they can make friends and feel supported.

Paul Snape, Chief Executive of The Way Youth Zone, explains:
“This research shows how vital youth centres are. Young people need real-world spaces where they can belong, build confidence, and feel supported. Technology can’t replace the trust and empathy that comes from face-to-face connection. At The Way, we provide that safe space every week for hundreds of young people in Wolverhampton.”

Youth centres like The Way are more than just places to hang out—they’re lifelines for young people who need connection, confidence, and community.

Read the full report here. https://www.onsideyouthzones.org/generationisolation/