At a public meeting of Councillors on Thursday it was announced by Council Leader Terry Fox that Youth provision is to increase in every ward across the city – and that that Labour wants to see this increases to a minimum of 3 provisions for every council ward (worth 6 hours in sessions for youth work).

These extra sessions may be delivered at youth clubs, but may also be delivered via a wide range of outreach work.

Currently some wards are without any provisions.

Making this announcement Councillor Terry Fox said:

“It was the Labour administration who took the decision last year to bring youth services in house, to better join-up services, as well as providing £2 million extra in investment.

“Improving Youth Services was one of our red lines for entering Co-operation talks, and we are delivering on a key local election Manifesto promise.

“We’re investing an extra £2 million, which will be spent this financial year, to fund Youth provision in every ward across the city – within the next couple of months – and ultimately increasing to a minimum of 3 provisions across all wards.

“This will be based on demand from young people, with an increase to those areas needing to more, due to consideration such as Indices of Multiple Deprivation and the number of young people in the area, and we will work with community groups to deliver this across the city”.

As well as the extra youth provision coming in immediately, Labour councillors have given details on what the emerging Youth Strategy will deliver:

•          Working our voluntary sector colleagues for the additional provision across the city, bringing a valuable mixed economy in youth provision. This will help to sustain the sector and further develop the valuable partnership Sheffield City Council has with its Voluntary Community Sector colleagues.
• We will provide a uniformed youth work presence in the city so all young people are aware there are trusted adults on the streets across the city, safeguarding our vulnerable young people.
• We will provide activities that are current and modern and what young people want. Giving access to activities for all young people for example in Leisure, sport, culture, creativity, music and the outdoors.
• We will work to increase youth voice and influence in our city. For example, we will encourage young people to attend their LAC meetings to ensure the voice of young Sheffielder’s is heard when developing plans and services.
• We have created a Youth Partnership Board that will oversee the Youth Strategy and actions from that. The board membership is made up of young people, again ensuring that the services planned, and the actions taken are developed with Young Sheffielder’s.

Labour will also ensure that youth provision is modern, current and safe and has the right equipment and facilities for young people to thrive and have essential life skills as they transition to adulthood.