Guernsey faces ‘brain drain’ as young look further afield

From a survey where we asked nearly 100 young islanders how Covid had affected their life choices, it emerged that almost two-thirds would be looking to start or further their careers outside the island.

In doing so they were particularly critical of the States, the price of housing and a lack of variety in the local job market.

The survey had 91 respondents aged between 16 and 21, drawn from across the educational spectrum. The majority have just completed A-levels and are planning their next move.

A third said they intended to look for work in Guernsey after their studies but two-thirds had ambitions further afield. They raised issues about the lack of variety in career opportunities, had concerns about what they saw as ‘slow-moving and inefficient government’, and the high cost of living, and particularly the high costs of housing.

‘The housing market is just inaccessible, even to young professionals, without significant financial assistance,’ said one respondent.

However the survey also revealed that a good number of these young people might return to the island in the future. While just one in 10 could see themselves staying in the island for the rest of their lives, most of those who went away would be keen to come back – 30% within a decade, 36% after that and 22% said they would be happy to retire in the island.

More than half of those expecting to return gave the same answer which will surprise no-one – ‘Guernsey provides a good environment to raise a family,’ said one – and they valued both the scenic beauty and the safe nature of the island.

James Crawford, 42, international business development director at Guernsey Finance, is a classic example of the returning Guernseyman. He came back to the island two-and-a-half years ago with his wife Karen. A month ago she had twins in hospital in Guernsey.

‘We came back to live in Guernsey because we wanted to buy a house and start a family. You get to that stage where you want to have you own place and be around your own folk,’ he said.

‘I got the opportunity to work in some fantastic places and gained a raft of qualifications, but you get to the stage where you want a slower pace and Guernsey offers a safe, secure environment and a comfortable life. Where else in the world would you get that?’