Fiona Blacke said youth work could disappear as local authorities move towards more integrated working in children and young people's services.
"In the last few years local authorities have become strategic drivers," said Blacke.
"Connexions has gone, the Learning and Skills Council will go. Local authorities will be drivers and commissioners of all nought-to-19 provision. If we're not clear about youth work and what it can do then youth work will disappear as a distinct profession. We have to articulate what youth work brings to the integrated services agenda."
Blacke warned local authorities against a blurring of provision between childhood and adolescence.
"I hope there is a recognition of youth and young people in their own right," she said.
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