As we release data from our latest annual survey, one fact stands out: young women across England and Wales are carrying an overwhelming burden of financial pressure. From mounting debt and food bank reliance to lack of career progression, they are being held back by a system that offers little support.
This situation is unacceptable. We are calling on the government and employers to take urgent action to tackle financial inequality. Young women like Pippa deserve better – a chance to escape poverty and thrive in life.
Meet Pippa: a single mum’s journey to become a solicitor
Pippa is a single mum from Dorset, she says that she faces an uphill battle to make it as a solicitor.
“I became pregnant at 18 and I wanted a better life for my daughter so I continued my studies in law. There was no additional support at the university and I had to fight for recorded lectures. There were even times when I had to bring my daughter to lectures with me,” she said.
Challenges at every step, from being a student to entering work
Like many young mothers, Pippa struggled to access childcare when changes to student finance made upfront payments unavailable.
“I’ve had to rely on my mum quite a lot and I found myself working around the clock between studying and taking care of my daughter just to get by.
“Luckily I managed to complete my studies but my next hurdle was applying for training contracts which would allow me to qualify as a solicitor. It is very competitive because the university you’ve attended matters, your ability to travel all over the country matters and there’s an expectation that you’ll work early and stay late. It’s meant that I’ve been trapped in lower paid roles as a legal secretary because I have caring responsibilities. The difference in salary between a secretary and a solicitor is at least £10,000 – that’s a life changing amount of money for myself and my daughter.”
The financial strain and emotional toll on young women
The money worries have affected Pippa’s self-esteem and day-to-day life. The schemes offered by legal firms such as unpaid internships and placements, won’t improve her financial situation.
“I work full time, but I’ve had to cut down on my daughter’s clubs. I’m always worried about my car being on the brink of dying. There’s a lot of uncertainty and worry, especially as a single parent.”
Pippa’s convinced that if she was a man she wouldn’t face the same barriers to pursuing her career.
“I’ve been asked in interviews how I’d manage childcare, even though it’s discriminatory. You’d never ask that of a father or any man.”
Changing the system and world of work for young women
Pippa’s story is just one example of the systemic inequality young women face in the workplace. Employers and policymakers must step up to ensure women have the support they need to thrive, not just survive.
It’s time to challenge these barriers and create a fairer future for young women across the UK.
