Local authority announces plans to cease funding 22 youth centres to save £1m

Dorset County Council said it plans to target resources "where they are most needed" with youth workers operating in places such as schools and skate parks.

The local authority said the move will allow youth workers to tackle major issues such as self-harm, abuse and antisocial behaviour.

It added that it will support local communities, including young people themselves, to continue providing youth clubs, facilities and activities. The plans will save around £1m from the £2.2m annual budget for youth services.

The council said it has taken the decision to withdraw funding for the youth centres because a survey found only a small percentage of the county’s 13- to 18-year-olds go to a youth centre.

Toni Coombs, Dorset's lead member for children and young people, said: “Good youth work is much more than about offering young people places to go and things to do – it’s about building relationships and supporting those who need help, whether it’s with attending school, mental health issues or substance misuse.

“There is an enormous amount of pressure on young people today and we need to spot problems early before we have to provide more intensive – and costly – services, such as social care. The earlier we can support children and their families, the more likely they are to lead happy lives.”