Warm words but cold cuts

On 15 May 2025, the Government announced its youth work funding package for 2025/26, including investment across enrichment activities, outdoor learning, uniformed youth groups, and workforce training.

We welcome the continuation of important programmes like the Adventures Away From Home Fund, especially while the new National Youth Strategy is under development. These initiatives are life-changing – enabling young people from underserved communities to build confidence, connect with nature, and develop vital life skills.

UK Youth is proud to be working in partnership with Government, through the #iWill Movement, to ensure young people’s voices shape the National Youth Strategy. This is a vital opportunity to turn the tide on 15 years of devastating cuts to youth services and commit to the long-term investment needed to build better opportunities for young people.

Jacob Diggle, Chief Impact Officer at UK Youth, said:

“We welcome the Secretary of State’s recognition of the vital role youth work will play in supporting national priorities – including economic growth. But growth isn’t possible without sustained investment in young people.

Let’s be clear: yesterday’s announcement still amounts to a net cut in youth work funding.

Jacob Diggle, Cheif Impact Officer for UK Youth

Government investment in youth services has already been cut by nearly 75% over the past 15 years – a £1.2 billion cut in real terms. The Secretary of State has rightly called this “a national shame”, yet her Government has now cut tens of millions more.

This is a false economy. Youth work reduces crime, improves mental health, and boosts education and employment outcomes. Every £1 invested in youth work generates at least £3.20 in benefits for the taxpayer.

At a time when young people are facing unprecedented challenges, the Government is still failing to fund the solutions that work. Youth work isn’t a ‘nice to have’ – it’s essential.

The Prime Minister says he is “backing young people”. But his Government’s own ambition to break down barriers to opportunity will fail unless young people have access to the services they need.

Youth workers continue to offer life changing, and even life saving, support. This is possible because of the extraordinary commitment of funders – like the Pears Foundation, Julia Rausing Trust and Westminster Foundation – who have stepped up when Government hasn’t. But millions are missing out and the gap cannot be closed without long-term, sustainable public investment.

The Spending Review and National Youth Strategy must be a turning point. If Ministers are serious about breaking down barriers for young people, it’s time to fund what works – and that starts with youth work.”