11/06/2026
A message to our youth workers, young people and families, from our Chief Executive Officer.
To all youth workers, staff, volunteers, and management committees across the region: I want to take a moment to address you directly during what is an incredibly tense and challenging time for our communities.
First and foremost, thank you.
Your unwavering dedication to our children, young people and communities is nothing short of remarkable. Every single day, you are on the front line, providing safe, welcoming sanctuaries where young people feel valued, heard and supported. Whether you are delivering critical programmes on the ground, generously volunteering your time, or providing vital leadership on a management committee, your contribution is the absolute bedrock of our sector.
However, we cannot ignore the deeply troubling climate unfolding around us. We must be absolute and uncompromising in our stance: We categorically condemn the racism, hatred and violence currently threatening our young people, families and communities right across society.
The prejudice, dangerous misinformation and hostility we are witnessing stand in direct opposition to everything youth work represents. Our young people are watching, and many are being directly exposed to this violence and division. Now, more than ever, they need the critical, reflective dialogue and the safe, positive alternatives that only you can provide. By keeping your doors open, facilitating difficult conversations and challenging these destructive, racist narratives, you are actively dismantling division and offering genuine hope.
Please know that your work is seen, valued, and fiercely protected. The Youth Work Alliance team and I stand completely in solidarity with you.
To the families across our communities who are feeling targeted, anxious, or frightened by the recent surge in racism, hatred and violence: we stand with you.
Youth Work Alliance and all of our member organisations want to make one thing absolutely clear: our services are, and always will be, a completely safe place for your children. We believe in equality for all, and our core message remains that absolutely everyone is welcome here.
We know this is a frightening time, and we do not want any family to feel isolated. We strongly encourage you to:
Reach out to your local youth club: Their doors are open. The youth workers are here to support your young people, offering them a secure, supervised environment to process what is happening, shielded from violence and misinformation.
Contact your local representatives: Make your voices heard. Reach out to your local political representatives to demand that they stand up for inclusive communities, condemn this hatred, and protect the vital community services that keep our young people safe.
We are fully committed to a shared future built on respect and understanding. We are undeniably stronger together, and the youth sector will continue to fight for a safe, inclusive society for every single family.
Our message is clear:
🌍 Inclusive Youth Services: Everyone is welcome here.
🤝 Equality for All: We are committed to ensuring young people can be themselves and build positive relationships.
🛑 Stand Against Racism: We reject hatred, violence, and misinformation in all its forms.
🌈 Different Backgrounds, Shared Future: We are undeniably stronger together.
