Drawing on insights from more than 200 youth work practitioners and organisations, this report explores how youth work helps young people build the confidence, resilience and trusted relationships that enable them to overcome barriers and create positive futures.
About the report
The Where Futures Begin: How youth work supports positive life outcomes report arrives at a critical moment, with almost one million young people across the UK not in education, employment or training. Drawing on evidence from more than 200 youth work practitioners and organisations across England, the report explores how youth work helps young people build the confidence, resilience and relationships they need to thrive.
The findings reveal that low confidence and self-belief are among the most significant barriers facing young people today, while trusted, long-term relationships are seen by youth workers as the sector’s most distinctive contribution. Through safe spaces, supportive adults and opportunities for personal growth, youth work helps young people develop the foundations for positive futures.
In this report, you’ll discover:
- The key barriers preventing young people from reaching their potential.
- The unique role trusted relationships play in supporting positive outcomes.
- How youth work helps build confidence, wellbeing, resilience and belonging.
- Why a more preventative approach is needed to support young people’s futures.
- Recommendations for policymakers, funders and sector leaders.
Download the report to explore the evidence behind youth work’s role in helping young people overcome challenges, access opportunities and build positive futures.
