Review launched into statutory guidance for Local Authorities on providing youth services

A review of the guidance for local authorities which sets out how they should secure activities and services for young people has been launched by Civil Society Minister Mims Davies.

The review aims to focus attention on the positive role local authorities can play in the provision of youth services, and ensure the guidance is useful and accessible for those who need it most.

Developing skills and knowledge

Civil Society Minister Mims Davies said:

We need to ensure young people have the opportunities to develop new skills and have fun outside the classroom. We know access to youth workers and youth services transforms people’s lives and in some instances keep them safe.

I want this key review to take into account social isolation in young people especially those who are most vulnerable like young carers. We do want new guidance that is fit for purpose and offers the potential to form new and lasting partnerships that benefit our young people now and in the future.

Many local areas have adapted new models of delivering services to deliver a broader range of quality services and it’s hoped the review will provide greater clarity of government’s expectations, including the value added by good youth work.

National Youth Agency, Chief Executive, Leigh Middleton said:

As the national body for youth work we are delighted to support this Government review and guidance on what is considered a sufficient level of youth work to help secure quality services and activities for young people. If we are to do right by our young people they need access to good quality advice and support from professional youth workers and skilled volunteers. The NYA is hosting nine regional events to ensure our sectors views are heard

Councillor Anntoinette Bramble, Chair of the LGA’s Children and Young People Board said:

Councils are committed to giving young people the best start in life. In challenging financial circumstances, they have worked hard to make sure that those most in need have been able to get support to reach their full potential and make a good transition to adulthood.

However, provision has changed significantly in recent years, as have some of the main issues facing young people. We look forward to working with the Government on this review, which is a good opportunity to take stock of youth services across the country and look at how councils, central government and partners can work together to make sure that every young person is able to thrive.

The review process will begin with a series of sector led roundtables, including the Youth Voice Steering Group which was set up following the publication of the Civil Society Strategy, the Local Government Association and the National Advisory Board of the National Youth Agency.

A public call for evidence will be open for 8 weeks over the Summer, from late July to September.