Why We Must Lighten the Load for Young People This September and Beyond
As young people across the UK return to school this September, many are carrying more than a backpack.
For many families, the start of a new academic year is a time of excitement but for others it can be full of anxiety, with many young people carrying far more than books and PE kits back to school this year.
They may be carrying nervousness about returning to school after the summer break, worrying about fitting in, making friends or finding their place in a new class. Some will be concerned about exam pressures, attendance, bullying or their future prospects. Others may be carrying challenges that extend far beyond the classroom, including poverty, caring responsibilities, family difficulties, poor mental health or low self-confidence.
This September, the Jon Egging Trust (JET) is launching our More Than a Backpack campaign to shine a light on these unseen challenges and remind young people that they do not have to carry them alone.
The journey back to school is not the same for every young person and while September represents opportunity for many, it can also be a period of heightened stress and uncertainty. Transition and change can be particularly difficult for young people, especially if they are moving schools, changing year groups or rebuilding friendships after time away from education. Alongside this, many of the challenges young people carry are invisible, some are holding the weight of financial hardship. In England, more than 2.1 million pupils were eligible for free school meals in 2024, representing 24.6% of all pupils, an increase from previous years. These pressures can impact confidence, concentration, and wellbeing, making the return to school an especially challenging time.
For families experiencing financial pressures, September can be particularly difficult. The cost of uniforms, equipment, transport, and school activities can place additional strain on already stretched household budgets.
Others may be carrying responsibilities that many adults would struggle with, with approximately 120,000 young unpaid carers aged 5 to 17 in England, while charities believe the true figure may be significantly higher, with estimates of over 800,000 young carers across the UK. These young people may be helping to care for parents, siblings or family members before and after school, balancing education alongside responsibilities that often go unseen.
For some, the challenge is confidence. The pressure to fit in, build friendships and navigate social situations can feel overwhelming, particularly after long breaks from school. The return to education often brings worries about belonging, appearance, academic achievement and friendships, all at a time when young people are continuing to develop their identity and self-esteem.
September can also bring concerns about what comes next.
Across England, more than a million young people aged 16 to 24 were not in education, employment or training (NEET) in 2025. Young people who do not feel confident, connected or supported are more likely to face barriers to education, employment and future opportunities. Early intervention and ongoing support can play a vital role in helping young people build the resilience, skills and confidence needed to navigate these challenges, which is why JET’s work is so important.
Given the right support, guidance and opportunities, young people can overcome barriers and realise their potential. During this Campaign, we’re sharing Lacee’s story, highlighting the challenges affecting young people and showcasing the positive impact that support can have.
How You Can Help
This September, we’re inviting everyone to be part of the story. You can support us by:
- Raising awareness by sharing the campaign
- Donating to support young people facing barriers
- Becoming a regular giver
- Joining the JET Lottery
- Fundraising within your school, workplace or community
- Helping us to spread the message that no young person should face life’s challenges alone.
Follow our campaign here by signing up to our newsletter here.
Together, we can help young people build confidence, resilience and hope for the future, because every young person deserves the opportunity to thrive.
Lighten the Load. Change a Life.