Child Friendly Warwickshire

This year's theme, Where Futures Begin, highlights the positive difference youth work makes to young people's lives, from building confidence and developing new skills to making friends and feeling part of their communities. 

Across Warwickshire, youth workers and voluntary youth organisations provide safe, welcoming spaces where young people can be themselves, share their experiences, explore new opportunities and receive support when they need it. 

This year's celebrations also mark the launch of the new Warwickshire Youth Work Pledge, bringing youth organisations across the county together around a shared commitment to providing high-quality youth work. 

Developed to reflect the values and standards of youth work, the pledge sets out what young people can expect when attending a Warwickshire Youth Service session or a voluntary sector youth club. This includes 'feeling welcomed, respected and listened to', as well as 'having opportunities to learn, grow and thrive'. 

The pledge also supports the wider ambitions of Child Friendly Warwickshire, helping to create a county where children and young people feel safe, valued and supported to reach their potential. 

Over the past year, Warwickshire Youth Service has recorded more than 16,500 contacts with young people through its youth clubs and projects across the county. The service also provides one-to-one youth work support through Warwickshire's Families First offer. 

Councillor Wayne Briggs, Portfolio Holder for Children and Families, Education and SEND at Warwickshire County Council, said: 

"Youth workers play such an important role in our communities. They build trusted relationships with young people, listen to their concerns and help them build confidence .

"This year's theme, 'Where Futures Begin', is a wonderful reminder that even the smallest conversation, word of encouragement or opportunity can make a lasting difference to a young person's future. 

"The launch of the Warwickshire Youth Work Pledge reinforces our commitment to creating a Child Friendly Warwickshire, where every young person feels valued, supported and able to thrive. We're proud to celebrate the dedication of youth workers and voluntary organisations who help make this possible every day." 

Throughout Youth Work Week, Warwickshire Youth Service will also be sharing short videos featuring youth workers talking about their roles, what inspires them and why youth work matters to local communities. 

From providing a listening ear to helping young people build confidence and try something new, these stories will offer a glimpse into the positive impact youth workers make every day. 

To find out more about Warwickshire Youth Service, local youth clubs and the support available, visit https://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/youthservice