Interim Youth Work Board
The interim Youth Work Board for Wales has submitted its first report on developing a sustainable delivery model for youth work services in Wales. Youth Work has shown its value to young people countless times, and none more so than during the pandemic and lockdowns. Youth Work has a high value, but government and local authorities are not always aware.
The board advocate for new legislation, a national body to take responsibility for the programme, the development of a new funding model, and a measurable youth work framework. The board recommended that young people be at the heart of this by helping to shape the design and delivery of new legislation. Young people want to be part of the decision-making process. The current legislation does not truly convey the meaningfulness of youth work, which weakens its stance as a vital service for young people and could lead to further budget cuts. A stronger legislative base would enable youth work services to become available to all 11-25 year olds in Wales.
Amongst other things, the board suggested a nationwide pilot of a youth entitlement card, similar to a scheme already in place in Scotland. The card would be free of charge to all 11-25 year olds living in Wales, act as an accredited proof of age card, outline what is available to young people in their area, across Wales, and internationally, and could also be used as a rewards scheme card.
Overall, the report covers a variety of sustainable measures that can be implemented to keep youth work on the government’s radar and allow for services to be accessible to every young person in Wales.
