A key to transforming our communities lies not just in policing, but in unlocking the potential of our young people through universal youth work provision.
UK Youth’s groundbreaking research paints a compelling picture of youth work’s impact. Our Untapped report reveals that youth work saves the taxpayer more than half a billion pounds a year from reduced crime – including more than £150mn from reduced antisocial behaviour. This isn’t just about changing lives; it’s time to revolutionise communities.
However, here’s the rub: while youth work proves its worth, it faces unprecedented challenges. Government funding for youth work has reduced dramatically over the last 15 years – with more than a billion pounds of funding lost, thousands of youth worker jobs gone and hundreds of youth centres closed. This shortsighted approach is costing society dearly.
Labour’s £100mn Young Futures programme is a welcome start. However, to truly transform our streets, we need to think bigger.
Imagine the positive impact if we invested in scaling quality youth work provision nationwide. The potential is enormous. Young people are the most likely age group to want to volunteer – 71% of 18- to 24-year-olds want to volunteer to help their community in the year ahead. We’re sitting on a goldmine of community spirit and potential leadership – we need to provide the opportunities to unlock it.
This is not just about crime reduction. UK Youth’s findings show quality youth work can improve young people’s mental health, boost their employability and foster a sense of belonging.
Labour has the chance to be revolutionary in its approach to youth and community safety. By placing universal, quality youth work at the centre of its strategy, the party can offer hope, support and opportunities to a generation often overlooked.
The government’s mission is commendable. Now, let’s amplify it. Let’s not “take back” our streets – let’s hand them to the communities they belong to, including young people.
To the sector, I have three calls for action:
1. Read and Share: Dive into UK Youth’s Untapped report and share its findings. Spread awareness of youth work’s impact and potential
2. Engage Locally: Support your local youth organisations through volunteering, donations, or advocacy. Your involvement can make a difference
3. Challenge Decision-Makers: Urge your MP and local councillors to prioritise investment in youth work provision. Use UK Youth’s research to make a compelling case for this crucial investment.
The evidence is clear. The potential is enormous. The need is now. Young people are ready to lead – are we ready to empower them?
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Ndidi Okezie is chief executive of UK Youth
