The Code is for the whole youth workforce, not just qualified youth workers. If your role contributes to young people’s learning, safety or wellbeing, this Code helps you make sound, values led decisions in everyday practice.
Intro
The Youth Work Code of Ethics sets out the values, behaviours and professional standards that underpin safe, respectful and empowering work with young people. Refreshed in collaboration with youth workers and young people, it keeps Youth Work at the heart of the youth sector and supports consistent, values led practice across roles and settings.
Why this matters now
The publication of Youth Matters: Your National Youth Strategy sets a course for the next decade. The refreshed Code of Ethics helps ensure Youth Work leads in delivering that vision providing a practical, accessible anchor for everyone working with and for young people.
What the Code emphasises
- Young people’s voice and empowerment – centre their needs, perspectives and participation
- Safety and safeguarding – create safe environments and uphold clear professional boundaries
- Inclusion and fairness (EEDIB) – challenge discrimination and promote equity in culture and practice
- Confidential, accountable practice – handle information responsibly and lawfully
- Reflection and continual learning – welcome feedback and develop skills over time
- Digital practice – apply the same care, integrity and respect online as offline
Who it’s for
The Code is for the whole youth workforce, not just qualified youth workers. If your role contributes to young people’s learning, safety or wellbeing, this Code helps you make sound, values led decisions in everyday practice.
What’s new in the refresh
We’ve retained the original principles and updated the language and presentation to improve accessibility across the sector, including explicit attention to digital spaces. Further resources will roll out in early 2026 to support embedding and reflective practice.
