We have responded to the government’s Youth Matters: Your National Youth Strategy, which has been launched today (Wednesday 10 December).
James Blake, YHA Chief Executive said: “The National Youth Strategy offers the chance of a sea change, to reverse the decline in youth provision, restore real-life connections and improve lives.
Young people have spoken; they want in-person experiences, access to nature, spaces to meet, improved wellbeing. All things YHA provides through inclusive residentials in amazing places.
Through our network of youth hostels in England and Wales and 95-year history of youth provision, YHA has the infrastructure, the experience and, most importantly, the shared desire to help make these aspirations a reality.
Too many young people miss out on having adventures away from home that build confidence, connection and belonging, particularly those from underserved communities. At YHA we’re ready to scale activities that work, building on Generation Green and the National Citizen Service to reach these young people.
Now is the time to act. This strategy will only succeed if we move at pace and with shared intent. Together we must restore real-life connections to nature and heritage, open doors beyond young people’s immediate communities, and ensure that every young person, regardless of background, can access enriching adventure for the first time, and a lifetime. What matters now is the action we take next, and the speed at which we take it.”
Discover more about YHA.
