Parents across the UK are bracing for what researchers call a “not so empty nest,” as new figures show the majority believe their children will return home after graduating. The Empty Nest Survey 2025, commissioned by Unite Students, found that 85% of parents expect their children to “boomerang” back — a trend driven by economic pressures and a tougher graduate jobs market.
Swansea parent describes loss and pride
Angharad, a mum of two from Swansea, recently dropped her daughter off at UWE Bristol. She said the experience left her with mixed emotions.
“I didn’t want to leave her in this strange place, living with strangers in an unfamiliar city. I cried a little on the way home,” she said. “When I went into her empty bedroom I felt a sense of loss, like something was missing. But I also feel a real sense of pride in how she has managed the changes and challenges.”
Angharad said her daughter had already overcome hurdles in her first week, including navigating bus strikes in Bristol.
Tracking apps divide parents
The survey also revealed how digital tools are reshaping parenting. Two‑thirds (67%) of parents admitted to using tracking apps to monitor their children’s location once they leave for university.
Angharad is cautious about the trend:
“Personally I feel it’s an invasion of their privacy, and could result in more worry and become a bit obsessive. Keep in regular contact with your child but give them the space they need.”
By contrast, Steven, a dad of two from Michaelston‑y‑Fedw, said his family uses Life360 to track each other:
“It means we know she’s home after a night out and is safe. She’s fine with it, she’s not bothered.”
Fathers report stronger grief
The survey found that 83% of parents reported extreme grief after drop‑off, with fathers (85%) more likely than mothers (79%) to feel the loss. A quarter said they felt “a part of them was missing,” while 14% admitted to crying uncontrollably.
Steven said the change had left a “big hole” in his family’s life:
“I’ll miss the phone calls at 3am to go and pick her and her friends up from the middle of Cardiff. I will also miss the house being full of her and her friends. I am excited for her, but sad for my wife and I.”
Experts urge balance
Dr Dominique Thompson, a GP and young people’s mental health expert, said parents need to “wean themselves off” tracking apps and allow young adults to grow.
“We need to be comfortable with not knowing where our adult children are at all times… that is part of growing up and making one’s own life choices.”
