New research reveals young people in West Midlands are turning to AI for emotional support
Onside's annual survey reveals how AI and youth clubs shape young people’s social lives and well-being
The results of Onside's annual YouGov survey, exploring how young people spend their free time, has been released, with a particular focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and its role in young people’s lives.
Each year, Onside surveys 5,000 young people aged 11-18 across England about life outside school. This year, the survey also included questions on AI, with specific insights available for young people in the West Midlands.
Key findings from this year’s survey include:
- AI as a support tool: Across England, 39% of young people aged 11-18 have turned to AI for advice, support, or companionship.
- Reasons for using AI: In the West Midlands, 17% of young people use AI chatbots because it feels easier than talking to a human, and 11% rely on AI because they have no one else to talk to.
- Emotional support: Of those who use AI, 12% seek help for feelings such as stress, sadness, or loneliness.
- Trust and connection: Despite these uses, trust in AI is low—only 3% say they trust chatbots more than real people. Half of young people say spending time with friends in person is what makes them feel most connected.
The survey also highlighted the continued value of youth clubs: although only 12% of young people attend a club, 94% of attendees report a positive impact on their lives, and over half (55%) have made new friends through these activities.
The Way Youth Zone in Wolverhampton was part of the research. Rebecca Bunger, Head of Youth Work said:
"Our goal is for our youth workers to enable young people to build strong connections and relationships with their peers and to help them make real friends."