An exclusive essay on the obstacles laid in the paths of this generation. Plus Suzanne Moore on why young people are unhappy. She argues society has demonised and and silenced them and that it's time for a new approach

As Suzanne Moore observes, kids often say they just want to "be themselves" - but to be yourself you need time, and space, and some freedom. In 2008, how many British children have those options? The award-winning photojournalist Nick Danziger spent five days in June photographing children in London and Edinburgh, at home, at school, at play and hanging out.

Click on the photos below to open them up full size

Research and additional interviews by Sam Alexandroni

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