Asking students if they're done with Labour

PoliticsJOE heads to Durham to ask students why so many young people feel increasingly disconnected from the Labour Party, and why parties like Zack Polanski’s Greens, Your Party, and Reform UK are gaining traction among a generation looking for political alternatives.

Students told us they feel Labour has become too cautious, too neutral, or too focused on broad electoral appeal at the expense of the issues that matter most to young voters and its working class base. Many pointed to concerns over the party’s stance on immigration, Gaza, trans rights, and other social justice questions, saying Labour no longer represents the communities it once championed. Others spoke about affordability pressures, from housing and food prices to tuition fees, and frustrations that Labour isn’t speaking clearly to the economic realities people face day in day out.

Some felt Labour’s communication simply isn’t landing, arguing that achievements in government aren’t being explained, while long-term plans feel distant from the immediate challenges facing young people. In contrast, many highlighted Zack Polanski and the Green Party as standing out with clarity, moral conviction, and a willingness to engage directly with communities. Others noted the rise of Reform UK, even amongst people who strongly disagree with the party, as part of a broader shift away from the political mainstream.

We also asked about Your Party, founded by Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana. Some students praised its ideals, but were frustrated with the frequent internal disagreements and organisational issues.

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