MP’s warning youth service cuts are failing a generation

Sarah Champion, MP for Rotherham, said young people were being “forgotten”, with the “devastating” impacts of the cost of living crisis hitting them hardest.

She said: “The cost of living crisis is having a devastating impact on many people in Rotherham, especially young people.  

“The YMCA have published data showing that more than one in ten young people in Rotherham are living in fuel poor households, and over one in ten 16-18 year olds are classed as NEET — not in employment, education or training.

“The Conservative government is failing to invest in these vital services. “Labour would increase funding to Northern towns like Rotherham and ensure that the important work of charities such as the YMCA are supported, rather than use hollow rhetoric about ‘levelling up’ like the Government.  

“However, government underfunding has meant that investment for youth services has decreased by 73 per cent in the last decade.”

The Rotherham MP also spoke about the importance of youth services and the role they play in society.

She added: “Youth services run by Rotherham council and the YMCA provide support, learning opportunities, practical skills and education for young people to help shape their futures.   

“Youth services are essential to provide a safe space for young people to belong, contribute and thrive.

“They make a real difference to young people’s lives.  

“Young people should not be forgotten, and I will be campaigning to make sure that they never are.”

However, the Government has defended its recorded in helping young people and and said they were putting investment into key services which will “make a difference”.

A spokesperson said: “We recognise that global inflationary pressures are squeezing household finances, which is why we are protecting the eight million most vulnerable families with at least £1,200 of direct payments this year, and all households are receiving a £400 energy payment.

“Despite the impact of Covid, the proportion of 16-18-year-olds not in education, employment or training remains one of lowest on record.

“We continue to provide tailored help for young people through the DWP Youth Offer — wraparound support delivered by a 13-week Youth Employment Programme, delivered through over 190 Job Centres and 159 Youth Hubs open across the country.

“We also recognise the importance of youth services and are investing £560 million through our National Youth Guarantee to give every young person access to regular out of school activities, adventures away from home and volunteering opportunities.

“Youth services in the most deprived parts of England will be able to apply to build or refurbish their facilities through the £368 million Youth Investment Fund.”