A new inquiry has been launched examining the government’s strategy for improving outcomes for young people in England.
The inquiry launched by the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee, comes nearly a year after the publication of the National Youth Strategy, which acknowledges the current challenges facing the youth sector in England, such as young people’s access to safe spaces, someone who cares for them and a community to which they belong.
The committee will be examining the progress made so far in delivering the 10-year strategy. It will look at the opportunities and challenges facing the youth workforce and whether commitments on recruitment, training and professional development are sufficient to meet current and future demands.
The committee will also be looking at access to youth services, including how provision varies across England and the role of local authorities and initiatives such as Young Futures Hubs.
Additionally, the inquiry will explore how the strategy aligns with the government’s proposed social media policies and efforts to reduce screen time, as well as funding for the youth sector.
As part of the inquiry, the committee is planning to hold engagement events to gather the views of young people and youth workers.
Chair of the DCMS Committee, Dame Caroline Dinenage MP, said: “The Culture Secretary often says that young people need somewhere to go, something to do and someone to care. Our inquiry will be looking in depth at the government’s stated strategy to deliver this and the progress it has made so far.
"As well as looking at access to youth services and how they are delivered, an important part of our work will be examining the impact of recent policy developments. With the social media ban looming and the National Citizenship Service no more, it’s crucial that we find engaging activities to give young people meaningful opportunities.
"What matters most is our young people and the youth workers who support them, and we’ll make sure their views are heard loud and clear.”
