The aim of Youth Work is to enable young people to develop holistically, working with them to facilitate their personal, social and educational development, to enable them to develop their voice, influence and place in society and to reach their full potential. This is the definition of youth work outlined within the National Occupational Standards.

Youth Work helps young people learn about themselves, others and society through non-formal educational activities that combine enjoyment, challenge, learning and achievement. Youth work provides for young people’s well being and development in all its various forms – intellectual, physical, emotional and spiritual.  it seeks to enable the young people to have a voice, influence and place in their communities and society as a whole.

Youth workers, work primary with young people aged between 11 and 19. However, on occasions we may run activities for young members of the community and facilitate project for those aged 19-25. The impact of youth work is wide spread and it is delivered through an extensive range of settings and organizations including local authority, voluntary organization and groups such as uniformed and faith-based services.  

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Common issues that are addressed during youth work may include: drug and alcohol awareness, sexual health, social skills programmed, crime and prevention, social inclusion/exclusion, personal care and development, the environment, active citizenship, friendship and sports amongst many others. However, all the above must build on the fundamentals of Every Child Matters which set out five outcomes that are crucial for every child and young person to enjoy a positive holistic life.