12 Jan 2026
Local mental health charity Youth Talk has launched a new survey inviting young people aged 13–25 in St Albans, Harpenden and the surrounding areas to share their thoughts on what it’s really like growing up today.
The short, anonymous online survey asks about some of the challenges and pressures young people currently face — from mental health and school stress to friendships, family and life online. It also explores what might help when things feel tough and gives an opportunity for young people to share how adults can best support when a young person is struggling.
The results will be used to inform Youth Talk’s work in offering free confidential counselling to young people across St Albans and surrounding villages. It will also provide valuable insight for local services, schools, and decision-makers. The charity hopes to gather feedback from hundreds of local young people over the coming weeks.
Youth Talk chief executive David Barker said: “At Youth Talk, we’re all about listening to young people – not just in the counselling room, but in every part of what we do. This survey is a vital way for us to hear directly from young people themselves about the realities of growing up today. Their voices matter, and we want to make sure they’re at the heart of local conversations, decisions and support.”
The survey is open until January 22 and takes less than five minutes to complete. Young people aged 13–25 can take part at:
