BYC closure highlights 'threat to youth representation', members warn

An open letter, written by Haydn Cutler, Member of Youth Parliament for Kent, and co-signed by more than 200 advocates, follows the closure of the BYC last week.

Members of the youth parliament call for the DCMS’ “help and assistance so that we can continue our legacy of changing lives for the better”.

They highlight the BYC's role in elevating issues around free school meals access to a national level politically and producing insight into how the cost-of-living crisis has affected young people.

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It also states that “it is clear that the government and DCMS have a moral duty to ensure that the Youth Voice Programme, UK Youth Parliament, and the Youth Select Committee [which were all run by the BYC] continue without disruption or diminishment”.

The BYC was initially set up by the Foreign Office in 1948 and became an independent charity in 1963, meaning it was in existence for over 75 years.

The closure was due to “financial challenges” according to Zara Khan, BYC chair.

Khan said: “It is with great sadness that we announce the permanent closure of the BYC as ongoing financial challenges have resulted in insolvency. Despite our best efforts, we have been unable to provide a sustainable future for the charity. The economic environment has significantly impacted our ability to generate income.”

She added the decision had been “cemented by the recent administration of our dedicated and passionate partners The Body Shop”.

The sector has since paid tribute to the work of the BYC.

Ndidi Okezie, UK Youth chief executive officer, said: “The closure of yet another youth charity, BYC is deeply sad news. It strongly believes in the power of the youth voice, making space for young people to lead on youth voice engagement in government.

“Coming so soon after the demise of Children England, the closure of BYC spotlights the economic challenges the charity sector around young people is facing at this time. And this is on top of the financial crisis gripping councils across the country, many of whom have taken to cutting and axing youth provision to save money. We urge the government, business and society as a whole to increase investment in young people through quality youth work, for the benefit of the whole population.”

Children England closed in September 2023 after 81 years of existence due to financial challenges.