Why young high achievers are leaving Britain

Why young high achievers are leaving Britain

Author: The Times August 5, 2026 Duration: 28:13

‘There’s something wrong when aspirational high achievers see no future for themselves here,’ says Times columnist Cindy Yu. The exodus is small, but growing - the Office for National Statistics says there’s been a fivefold increase in 25-to-34-year-old British nationals leaving the UK since 2022. But why are they off, what are they searching for, and could anything encourage them to stay?


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Guests: 

  • Cindy Yu, columnist and contributing editor, The Times and The Sunday Times.
  • Dan Lowe, physiotherapist and content creator.
  • Jessica Ye, doctor.


Host: Luke Jones

Producers: Olivia Case, Jennifer Kennedy, Shabnam Grewal


We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.com

Read more: Why my friends talk about leaving Britain.

Photo: Getty Images

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Each morning, The Story arrives with a clear purpose: to move beyond the headlines and explore the forces and people shaping our world. Guided by the experienced reporting of Manveen Rana and Luke Jones, this daily podcast from The Times delves into the most significant political developments and news events with a level of depth and context that only their global network of journalists can provide. You’ll hear more than just summaries; you’ll get a nuanced understanding of why a story matters, who it impacts, and what might happen next. The analysis is sharp and the storytelling is compelling, designed to fit into your morning routine seven days a week. It’s a direct line to the frontline reporting and editorial expertise of one of the world’s most respected news organizations. This consistent, in-depth approach makes the podcast a reliable resource for anyone looking to truly comprehend the day’s events. Supported by readers of The Times and The Sunday Times, the production maintains a commitment to journalistic integrity and thorough exploration, ensuring every episode provides substance and clarity.
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