Research highlights role of youth groups in supporting complex needs

Research commissioned by UK Youth found that 72 per cent of 700 youth organisations across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland that responded work with young people suffering from mental health disorders, while 71 per cent work with young people who are not in employment, education or training.

Meanwhile, 67 per cent work with disabled young people, 61 per cent with young carers, 30 per cent with young people who are homeless and 15 per cent work with refugees.

The research also found that 70 per cent of young people attended youth clubs to acquire new skills, 64 per cent to get involved in their community and 60 per cent to get involved in volunteering and social action.

For 11 per cent of attendees, youth groups provided meals they were unable to get elsewhere.

Anna Smee, chief executive of UK Youth, said: “The youth sector across England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales has faced a tough few years with local and national cuts.

“However, our report highlights that despite these challenges, the sector continues to play a crucial role in providing support to the most vulnerable young people in our society and those with the most complex needs.

“UK Youth’s priority is to work with the sector to highlight the incredible work it does and to tap into much-needed new sources of funding.”

See 15 March edition of CYP Now magazine for more details of the research findings.