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The UK's decision to leave the European Union, commonly called Brexit, has led to numerous changes affecting various aspects of life. From commerce and travel to education and living standards, the ripple effects of this monumental decision are profound and far-reaching. Understanding these changes can help you navigate this new landscape more effectively.
1. Economic Changes
One of the most direct impacts of Brexit has been on the UK's economy. Initially, there was a lot of uncertainty that led to fluctuations in the pound's value. For young people, this economic shift can affect everything from job opportunities to prices of goods.
- Job Market: Some companies, especially international businesses, have chosen to move their headquarters from the UK to other EU countries, potentially reducing job opportunities in certain sectors. However, there has also been a push to foster more local businesses, which could create new jobs.
- Cost of Goods: With the UK leaving the EU's single market and customs union, importing goods has often become more expensive due to tariffs and longer processing times, which might increase the prices of certain products.
2. Changes in Travel
travelling to and from the EU is no longer as straightforward as it was before Brexit. For teenagers who love exploring, this change can influence both short school trips and longer travels.
- Passports and Visas: British citizens might now need visas or work permits to stay longer periods in EU countries. This could mean more paperwork and planning ahead of your travel.
- Health Insurance: The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) provided health cover throughout the EU, but it's validity might be limited post-Brexit. You'll need to check if you require additional health insurance when travelling to the EU.
3. Educational Impacts
Education has also felt the impacts of Brexit, particularly in terms of collaboration and exchange programs with EU countries. This affects students looking for opportunities abroad.
- Erasmus programme: The UK has opted out of the Erasmus programme, which was a popular scheme that allowed students to study in EU countries at little to no extra cost. In its place, the UK government has launched the Turing Scheme, offering similar opportunities worldwide.
4. Legal and Social Changes
There are also numerous legal and social changes tied to Brexit that can affect your day-to-day life as a teenager in the UK.
- Residency and Citizenship: For teenagers from EU countries living in the UK, or those with EU relatives, residency rights have changed. The EU Settlement Scheme was introduced, but the application period has ended, affecting those who did not register in time.
- Racial and Social Tensions: There has been an increase in social and racial tensions, in part due to differing views on Brexit. As a young person, engaging in community and educational initiatives that promote unity is crucial.
5. Practical Strategies to Handle Post-Brexit Changes
Navigating these changes might seem daunting, but here are some strategies that can help you cope and make the most of the opportunities available:
- Educate Yourself: Stay informed about post-Brexit regulations and changes. Understanding the new laws and how they affect you can help you make better decisions.
- Financial Planning: With the possibility of economic instability, learning basic financial planning and budgeting from a young age can prove invaluable.
- Cultural Exchange: Engage in or create new exchange programs like the Turing Scheme to gain international experience and broaden your educational horizons.
- Community Engagement: Participate in or initiate community dialogues to bridge any social divides and promote a more inclusive environment.
- Travel Smarts: Plan your travels thoroughly. Always check the latest travel guidelines for the countries you plan to visit and prepare the necessary documents well in advance.
As young people in the UK, the post-Brexit era presents both challenges and opportunities. By staying informed and proactive, you can overcome the challenges and maximise the opportunities that come your way in this new era.
How are you feeling?
It is really important that when we need help, we feel able to ask for it. This could be speaking to a parent, a close friend, a teacher or someone else you trust. Sometimes it can be really hard to share our feelings with other people but if we are feeling low or don't know where to turn, sharing with others is really important. Teachers will always take you seriously and listen to your problems in confidence if you approach them for help. Likewise, parents, siblings or friends will help you if you reach out to them.
If you feel like you can't speak to anyone you know, there are people and organisations that can help support you:
- Childline - Call them on 0800 1111 any time of the day or night, every day of the week
- NSPCC - Call them on 0808 800 5000 between 10am and 4pm Monday to Friday or email them on help@NSPCC.org.uk
- The Samaritans – Call them on 116 123 any time of the day or night, every day of the week
- SANE – Call 0300 304 7000 for support (4:30pm - 10:30pm every day)
- Mind – Call 0300 123 3393 (9:00am - 6:00pm Monday to Friday)
*Sometimes we will use real life examples in our articles to aid understanding. When we do, names and ages will be changed.
