BARNSLEY’S new multi-million pound youth zone has raised concerns about growing digital dependence and a lack of real-life social spaces for young people after a study found more than a third of youngsters are using AI for advice and company.

Barnsley-based youth charity Base71, part of the OnSide network who commissioned the research, found that 34 per cent of young people in Yorkshire and Humber aged 11 to 18 turn to AI for support, company or advice.

The findings come from national youth charity OnSide’s Generation Isolation 2025 report, the largest annual study of its kind into how youngsters spend their free time, based on a YouGov survey of 5,035 young people in England.

Now in its third year, the report reveals that in the Yorkshire and Humber region 34 per cent of young people feel high or very high levels of loneliness, while 46 per cent report high or very high anxiety.

Of those turning to AI, 15 per cent are seeking help with feelings and emotions such as stress, sadness and loneliness.

Another 14 per cent are looking for advice about friendships, and 11 per cent say they use AI because they just want someone to talk to.

Yet only seven per cent of chatbot users say they trust AI more than a real person, highlighting a clear gap between what is convenient and what truly supports young people.

With fewer accessible places to meet in person, young people are increasingly relying on digital interactions, but they don’t always meet their needs.

While 52 per cent say social media makes friendships easier, nearly half say in-person time with friends is what helps them feel truly connected.

When Base71 opens next month, its ambition is to provide the vital support young people in the area are calling for.

Chief executive Mandy Carlson said: “These findings shine a stark light on the reality many young people face today, feeling isolated and turning to AI for company or advice because real-life connection feels out of reach.

“One thing is particularly clear: young people are calling out for safe, affordable spaces where they can connect in person.

“It’s not just the data that is showing us this either.

“Critical to the development of Base71 has been our collaboration with our local young people who are advising us on how to make the space right for them, so it truly meets their needs.

“We know from our conversations that one of the biggest struggles has been the negative experiences they have faced online. Base71 will exist to help them navigate these experiences, offering a place where young people are not alone, not judged, and not hidden behind a screen.

“Young people across Barnsley will be able to walk through the door and immediately feel that they belong, that there are youth workers who will listen, support them and celebrate who they are.

“We cannot wait to open our doors and give them the in-person support, guidance and friendship they deserve.”