Last week (3-7 November) Solihull Council joined in celebrating Youth Work Week. Led by the National Youth Agency (NYA), it recognises the life-changing impact of youth work across the UK. The theme this year was ‘Building Brighter Futures: Safe places, trusted support, and opportunities.’
The Council focused on youth work throughout the week, holding an outreach event in Smith’s Wood to hear from residents about what they want to see locally for young people. There was also an information session for all staff about youth work in the borough, and a presentation to Children’s Services & Education Scrutiny Board to highlight the good work being done throughout Solihull.
The week also saw the launch of the Youth Voice Network, a meaningful project-based work experience programme for teenagers in Solihull, where they can learn about the workplace and the Council whilst having a genuine say on topics that impact themselves and their peers.
The Council runs four youth clubs across Solihull and a roaming youth work service across North Solihull targeting anti-social behaviour hotspots, but the majority of youth work locally is done by the voluntary, faith, community and social enterprise sectors. Young Opportunities Solihull, who are commissioned by the Council these providers to access funding and training and connect with similar groups, launched a video to celebrate the week.
Councillor Karen Grinsell, Leader of Solihull Council and Lead Member for Children & Education spoke proudly about youth work in the borough:
“Youth Work is more than a few volunteers and a pool table, it is about providing trusted adults, safe spaces and informal education to help young people with their socio-emotional needs and to help them build resilience. Youth Workers a vital part of our society which helps young people to thrive and can be an important and consistent part of their lives, often when other things in their life are changing or really difficult.”
“the new National Youth Strategy is due to be released soon and Solihull is getting ready by working with young people, residents and local community groups to celebrate what is on offer, as well as recognise where there are gaps we need to plug. I’m confident that we can do that with the support of our excellent network of providers.”