Y Services, a charity supporting young people aged 11 – 19 across South East Hampshire has been awarded the Advanced Level NYA Quality Mark in recognition of their vital role enriching the lives of local young people with a focus on co-creation, inclusivity and long-term engagement.
The organisation’s commitment to youth participation, including youth forums which evaluate programmes and inform future planning – such as the introduction of first aid training for young people, was particularly praised by the NYA. This participatory approach extends to creative projects – a sensory room at the Genesis Youth Centre in Locks Heath was designed entirely by young people. The charity also inspired tech-savvy young people to take on leadership roles as digital champions and develop a web presence, demonstrating how co-production can strengthen both programming and confidence in young people.
Y Services encourages young people to advocate for themselves and their peers through projects and grassroots campaigns. A standout example is the charity’s LGBTQ+ advocacy work, where young people successfully engaged with their local council to fly the pride flag during LGBTQ+ History Month.
Strong relationships with young participants – who on average remain engaged with the organisation for over a year – mean many choose to volunteer and progress to become one of the charity’s young workers.
Tailored programmes support LGBTQ+ and SEND young people as well as those who are home-educated, and a culture of reflective practice allows staff to consistently evaluate sessions, share insights and refine programmes to address evolving needs.
Behind Y Services’ operational strength is a dedicated leadership team and a hands-on board of trustees. The charity has forged strategic partnerships with local authorities, schools, churches and community leaders, enabling greater reach, stronger roots and sustainable funding.
During the assessment, partners consistently praised Y Services for their professionalism, community focus and lasting impact, such as the well-attended Friday evening session in the Parish of Rowner in Gosport, which has reduced anti-social behaviour.
Workforce development is a priority and investing in the ‘grow-your-own’ model supported by senior staff provides clear progression.
Y Services has committed to explore new areas including digital youth work, advanced co-production training, leadership qualification pathways and enhanced operational infrastructure to further empower young people and strengthen the charity’s capacity.
Laura Keegan, Local Quality Improvement Manager, NYA, said: “Y Services demonstrates outstanding commitment to involving young people in all aspects of their work. Their focus on listening, adapting and supporting young people’s growth empowers them to take an active role in shaping their futures. This approach has been recognised as cultivating lasting positive change within the local community through the Advanced Level Quality Mark.”
Andy Kennedy, Chair of Trustees, Y Services, said: “Y Services are extremely proud to have achieved the Advanced Level Quality Mark. The quality of our youth work practice in supporting the young people we work with has always been core to us as a charity. The process involved young people, our partners and our staff sharing their views of our work. To have the quality of our youth work externally validated reinforces my view about the exceptional work our staff continue to deliver.”
