Youth in disadvantaged areas half as likely to have access to out-of-school activities, says census

Findings released today from the national census of youth provision in England, suggests a huge disparity in the amount and type of provision such as youth clubs and other out-of-school activities available to young people depending on their location.

The figures suggests that there is twice as much provision in the most affluent areas of England as opposed to the most deprived areas, alongside 50% more buildings purpose built for, or dedicated towards, young people in affluent areas.

Leigh Middleton, NYA Chief Executive commented: “The Census findings show that young people living in areas of deprivation have less access to youth clubs and organisations than their peers in affluent areas.

“With 1 in 4 youth organisations in deprived areas having a waiting list of at least one month for their service, we must act now to ensure all young people can access high quality youth provision.