The 2024 Workforce Survey, run by the National Youth Agency (NYA), wants to hear in detail about roles being undertaken, the qualifications workers have and how they are working alongside other professionals.
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Alex Stutz, head of knowledge at the NYA, said: “Providing a clear understanding of the needs of the youth work workforce is imperative in light of the government’s recent commitment to co-produce a National Youth Strategy with young people, helping to highlight where there are gaps in resources and training in order to meet the prospect of increased demand for youth workers on the horizon.
“By just spending 10 minutes completing the workforce survey you can help us inform the government, policymakers and funders of the investment, infrastructure and support needed to create a youth sector which is fit for purpose.”
Last year’s survey found that fewer than seven per cent of respondents were under 26 years old, almost half (49%) were over the age of 46 and over half (59%) had worked in the youth sector for over a decade, highlighting the challenges in recruiting young entrants to this increasingly needed sector.
Youth workers said they value qualifications but, as many enter the profession as a volunteer, or move into youth work from allied professions, they may not pursue a recognised qualification until much later in their career when they have secured more permanent roles.
Together with the National Youth Sector Census focused on providers, the NYA says the survey will enable it to make the most compelling case for much-needed investment.
The deadline for responses is December 31, with the final report due for publication in spring 2025.
Participants will be entered into a festive prize draw.
The NYA is also carrying out a survey of how well-equipped youth workers feel about using digital, with feedback used to inform guidance.
Complete the workforce survey here and the digital survey here.
