The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) says a new £25 million investment is being made
Every Premier League club is signing up to work with the Government in a drive to get thousands of young people off benefits and into jobs or training. Under the scheme, football grounds, libraries and community centres will double as “Youth Hubs” offering CV advice, careers guidance, wellbeing support and training opportunities.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) says the number of hubs will almost double to more than 200 thanks to a new £25 million investment. The expansion comes with nearly one million young people currently not in education, employment or training.
Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden said: “The number of young people not in education, employment or training is unacceptably high, and this government will not stand by while so many are robbed of their potential and our country of its future.
“Through our £25 million expansion of Youth Hubs and partnerships with the Premier League and other key organisations, we’re creating real opportunities for the next generation, ensuring support is targeted to those most in need. This investment will support our mission to give every young person the skills and confidence they need to thrive, as we break down barriers to opportunity under our Plan for Change.”
Every Premier League club charity is now in talks with the DWP, while the English Football League’s charitable arm and the Rugby Football League have also joined the scheme. Mr McFadden will today visit Selhurst Park, home of Crystal Palace, to meet staff and young people already benefiting from the Palace for Life Youth Hub.
Clare Sumner, chief policy and social impact officer at the Premier League, said: “The Premier League is proud to support the expansion of Youth Hubs so young people, whatever their background, can access the opportunities, support and inspiration they deserve.
“Between 2022 and 2025, the Premier League has invested £1.6 billion into wider football and communities, helping support people of all ages who need it most, and create more chances for young people to learn and grow. By working in partnership with Government on the Youth Guarantee, we can build on this foundation and ensure Youth Hubs offer even more opportunities to help young people thrive.
“Together we are showing how football is more than a game, reaching those who need support most, helping them fulfil their potential and strengthening communities nationwide.”
The expansion is part of the Government’s wider “Plan for Change” which includes modernising Jobcentres, boosting the National Living Wage and funding training for tens of thousands of young construction workers.
