The NYA’s 2025 Workforce Survey Report, alongside a review of job vacancies, “underscores the urgent need for investment in sustainable, well-paid roles to attract and retain qualified professionals in the sector”, says the organisation.
The government’s forthcoming National Youth Strategy offers a “crucial opportunity” to address the issue, it adds.
Key findings from the survey include that a quarter of youth work jobs pay below the national living wage, with nearly a third (29%) being temporary or zero-hour contracts.
It also found that the average salary of £21,084 falls far below the UK national average of £36,920.
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In addition, the analysis finds the sector is blighted by a decline in qualified youth workers: Since 2021, 4,500 practitioners have left the sector linked to funding cuts of £1.2bn.
This has led to challenges for employers looking to recruit into new job roles with half (49%) of youth work job listings not requiring a formal qualification, says the NYA.
The crisis coincides with rising demand, with youth workers increasingly dealing with issues such as serious youth violence, violence against women and girls, safeguarding, and mental health crises.
NYA’s research shows that youth work is now predominantly delivered through the voluntary sector (69%), and a lack of stable career pathways deters new entrants.
Abbee McLatchie, the organisation’s director of youth work and deputy chief executive, said: "Without a strong, qualified workforce of youth workers, we're failing the next generation.
“The lack of trained professionals is a ticking time bomb for our young people and communities.
“It puts them at greater risk of falling into cycles of violence, mental health struggles, and without the support they deserve.
“The consequences are clear — this is not just an issue, it’s a crisis we cannot afford to ignore."
Harriet McCann, NYA’s director of policy, insights and external affairs, added: “The government’s National Youth Strategy presents a crucial opportunity to recognise the impact of qualified youth workers on young people’s outcomes, ensuring they are embedded in key government programmes and interventions, and that sufficient funding is secured to address the current workforce crisis.”
NYA is calling for increased government and sector investment to create stable, well-paid youth work roles; recognition of youth workers as essential professionals within education, health, and violence prevention strategies; and expansion of training and apprenticeships to build a pipeline of qualified youth workers.
The report was launched at the Annual Youth Work Conference co-delivered by the NYA with the Youth Endowment Fund, to an audience of decision makers, including keynote speaker, minister for sport, media, and civil society Stephanie Peacock.
Speakers were set to highlight the increased demand for and awareness of evidence-based approaches on youth work integrated within violence reduction strategies.
