One of the region’s leading youth organisations says youth services can play a vital role in helping young people prepare for employment, following the publication of a major national report warning of a growing youth unemployment crisis.
All About Youth is the first and only youth organisation in the Midlands to achieve the prestigious National Youth Agency (NYA) Quality Mark – a nationally recognised benchmark of excellence in youth work.
The charity, which supports young people across Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin, says the recognition reflects decades of experience delivering high-quality youth provision and places the organisation at the forefront of conversations around youth development, employability and early intervention.
The national report, led by former cabinet minister Alan Milburn, warns the UK risks creating a “lost generation” of young people not in education, employment or training (NEET), with figures potentially rising to 1.25 million over the next decade without urgent action.
All About Youth – which was formerly known as SYA All About Youth – says the findings reflect challenges already being seen locally, but believes experienced youth organisations can form a key part of the solution.
Richard Parkes, chief executive of All About Youth, said: “Youth clubs are often seen simply as places for young people to socialise and have fun, but good youth work can do so much more than that.
“It can take young people from enjoyment to employment.
“Through youth activities, young people develop confidence, communication skills, teamwork, resilience and independence – all the things employers are looking for but which can’t always be taught in a classroom.
“That could be through sports, creative activities, volunteering opportunities, group projects or taking on leadership roles within their youth club.
“We also support young people through initiatives such as the Youth Forum, where they can help shape local activities and services, giving them experience in leadership, communication and decision-making.
“For some, opportunities like Youth Parliament can open doors into politics, public speaking and campaigning, helping young people realise they can influence change in their communities and beyond.
“For many young people, youth clubs are the first place where they discover what they enjoy, what they’re good at and what they might want to do in the future.”
The charity says youth provision is especially important at a time when many young people are struggling with confidence, anxiety and uncertainty about future opportunities.
Richard said: “Trusted qualified youth workers can help young people build aspirations and self-belief, particularly those who may feel disconnected from education or unsure about their future.
“We regularly see young people gain confidence through youth activities and then go on to volunteering, training, apprenticeships or employment opportunities.
“That journey often starts with something very simple – feeling safe, feeling valued, and feeling part of something.”
The charity is also calling for greater recognition of the role expert youth organisations can play in supporting employability and long-term outcomes for young people.
Richard added: “If we are serious about tackling youth unemployment, investment in youth services has to be part of the conversation.
“Youth work helps young people develop the life skills, confidence and relationships that support them far beyond their teenage years.
“It’s not just about keeping young people occupied – it’s about helping them build brighter futures.”
All About Youth delivers youth clubs, activities and targeted support programmes across Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin, helping create safe, supportive spaces where young people can thrive.
For more information, visit www.allaboutyouth.org.uk.
