National Youth Agency Statement on the 2025 Budget

”Today’s Budget sets out welcome steps to support young people, including the Youth Guarantee, expanded opportunities for skills and employment through free apprenticeships for SMEs, and abolishing the two-child benefit limit.

We note the announcement in the Budget documentation that, as recommended by the Office for Value for Money, the Chief Secretary to the Treasury will lead a review of value for money across government spending. We are encouraged that this review will specifically consider youth provision, with the aim of better aligning investment with the ambitions of the forthcoming National Youth Strategy and maximising the impact of out-of-classroom support for young people.

As the details of the National Youth Strategy emerge later this year, we look forward to working with policy makers to ensure that all young people have access to high-quality youth work support and opportunities to thrive.”

Leigh Middleton OBEChief Executive, National Youth Agency