Labour councillor and group leader Kizzy Gardiner says she is ‘proud’ of her party’s record in investing in youth clubs and initiatives
Few groups have had it harder in recent years than our young people.
From COVID interrupting key years at school to families facing the pressures of the cost-of-living crisis, young people have often been left hearing negative messages about what their future holds.
Opportunities can feel harder to access, social lives have increasingly moved online, and mental health concerns have become widespread.
I saw much of this during my three years as cabinet member for children and young people. It was a role I loved because it gave me the opportunity to meet inspiring young people from across Waltham Forest.
I saw immense talent, creativity and determination, but I also saw how difficult it can be for young people to find affordable activities, safe places to spend time and trusted adults outside of home and school.
That is why investing in youth services matters so much.
Under Labour’s leadership, Waltham Forest Council created Space4All, funding 26 spaces across the borough where young people can meet friends, take part in activities, play sport and access support when they need it.
We worked alongside brilliant local organisations including Project Zero, YMCA, Leyton Orient Trust, ELOP and Leaders Community to make these opportunities available across the borough.
I am incredibly proud of what Space4All has achieved. It has shown that when we create welcoming spaces and trust local organisations to deliver them, young people take part. They build confidence, make new friends and become more connected to their communities.
But we also know that the scale of the challenge means more needs to be done.
Earlier this year, Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan announced funding to establish a late-night youth club in Waltham Forest. This means another place to go after school, during holidays and at weekends. It means more opportunities to participate in positive activities and spend time in safe and fun environments.
And now the Labour Government has announced we’re getting a Young Futures Hub in Waltham Forest.
One of the first in the country, it will provide access to sport, creative activities and youth work, whilst also offering support with mental health, employment, skills and training. COVID and smartphones have ushered in an era of online activities for our young people, and young people should have safe spaces to be online. But I know that nothing compares to safe, fun and welcoming in-person activities.
Investing in youth spaces is about investing in the relationships that support our young people. The youth workers, volunteers and staff who get to know the young people walking through the door make a lasting difference. Having one trusted adult, one welcoming place or one opportunity to discover a new interest can change the direction of a young person’s life.
Youth services have been decimated since 2010, and our young people have suffered as a result. For our national and London government to be investing in safe, supportive youth spaces is truly game-changing for our young peoples’ futures. I’m so proud that Labour governments are investing in Waltham Forest’s young people.
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