Conclusions
This study expands upon the current literature by providing a more in-depth perspective on the experiences of younger adolescents during lockdown. However, the long-term effects of lockdown are unknown, and it is important that further research continues, to identify potential negative impacts and ways to overcome them. Even more pressing is the need to educate schools and families on how to best communicate with adolescents about the possible effects of lockdown on their wellbeing. Finally, this study highlights the importance of providing information and resources for young people and those who support them, aimed at improving the impact of lockdown on adolescents’ health and behaviour; for example, strategies to target psychosocial health (e.g., feelings of loss or fear), including an educational component for teachers and families. However, before this can be achieved, more research is needed on both parents and teachers’ experiences of COVID-19 in England, including how data collated on young people’s mental health has informed the strategies and evidence that has been most effective within home and school settings.