Findings from the national census of youth provision in England, reveal the large disparity in the amount and type of provision available to young people depending on where they live. The data suggests that there is twice as much youth provision in the most affluent areas as opposed to the most deprived areas, alongside 50% more buildings purpose built for, or dedicated towards, young people in affluent areas.
Leigh Middleton, NYA Chief Executive commented,
“The Census findings show that young people living in areas of deprivation have less access to youth clubs and organisations than their peers in affluent areas. With 1 in 4 youth organisations in deprived areas having a waiting list of at least one month for their service, we must act now to ensure all young people can access high quality youth provision.
Young people must be a priority and it is imperative that the government acts to ensure all young people, regardless of where they live, are able to be access much needed support from a qualified youth worker and are not left to fall between the cracks.”
The Census was carried out May to July 2021, as part of a two-year programme of research and data analysis, on priority areas for young people and youth work. This is the first report written based on findings from the Census data, focusing on the methodology behind the National Youth Sector Census alongside a summary of early findings.
Further reports on the National Youth Sector Census will be written in the upcoming months.