From November 4-10, youth centres across the city will open their doors to parents and carers in celebration of Youth Work Week 2024.
This year’s theme, A Right to Youth Work for All – Delivering Positive Futures for Young People, highlights the importance of accessible youth work.
Throughout the week, parents and carers will have the opportunity to explore the diverse activities and programmes offered at the Kingston, Astra and Andrew Marvell Youth centres, which go beyond traditional recreational activities.
The modern youth work approach includes creative, active, musical, and challenging opportunities that support young people in navigating the journey to adulthood. Programmes range from music and cooking classes, to visits and attractions, chill-out zones, and Duke of Edinburgh’s Award expeditions.
The open day events will take place on the following dates and times:
- Andrew Marvell Youth Centre: Monday 4 November from 3.30pm to 4.30pm and 7pm to 8pm
- Astra Youth Centre: Thursday 7 November from 4.30pm to 5.30pm and 7pm to 8pm
- Kingston Youth Centre: Thursday 7 November from 6pm to 7pm
- Princes Quay (youth pop-up): Saturday 9 November – 4pm – 4.30pm
Please note that the open days are by appointment only. To book an appointment please contact the centre you wish to visit directly.
The annual Youth Work Week event, hosted by the National Youth Agency, aims to raise awareness of the life-changing impact youth work has on young people aged 8-21 (up to 25 for those with special educational needs).
It is a chance to raise awareness of youth work, which provides young people with a place to go, fun activities, opportunities to make new friends, learn new skills and receive the support of a trusted adult.
Further, a recent national survey by Savanta, commissioned by the NYA, revealed a high demand for more youth work provision which offered opportunities for fun, peer connection, and a sense of belonging in their communities.
These open day events will celebrate the achievements of our young people and the value of accessible youth work for those who may not otherwise engage in out-of-school activities or support.
Councillor Julia Conner, portfolio holder for youth services at Hull City Council said; “This is a great opportunity for parents and carers to see first hand the incredible impact youth centres have on our young people.
“Not only will the open days showcase the diverse and creative activities available, but they will also highlight the essential role youth work plays in providing safe and supportive environments where young people can thrive.
“The open days will also allow for the young people themselves to express how vitally important our youth provision is to them, as well as show their creativity and passion for doing something positive for Hull.”
For the first time, the National Youth Agency’s ‘Art of Youth Work’ campaign is also inviting young people to create original music, dance, spoken word, or visual art pieces. These creations will be showcased during Youth Work Week, illustrating how youth work provides a safe and inclusive space for young people to discover their talents, celebrate their identity, and connect with their communities.
Additionally, a new rap song developed by young people with the youth outreach team will be featured, highlighting the impact of youth work on their lives.
Leigh Middleton, National Youth Agency Chief Executive Officer, said: “Youth Work Week really is owned by all those working in and accessing youth work. It’s their chance to celebrate what youth work means to them and this year we’re keen to highlight the many wonderful ways that youth work celebrates diversity and provides inclusive spaces for our young people.
“We know that youth work transforms lives, but it’s only by seeing the energy and dynamic which often exists between young people and their youth workers, that you can begin to understand how they support young people’s confidence and life skills, as a springboard for success in other areas of their lives.”
For more information about the National Youth Agency and their national survey of young people visit www.nya.org.uk.
To view a gallery of the Youth Work Week celebrations taking place across the country visit nya.org.uk
