We deliver informal and social education and addresses whatever needs are presented to or perceived by the youth worker.

As Detached Youth Workers have no physical building over which they have power or control, the relationship between young person and youth worker is entirely voluntary and constantly up for negotiation.

The teams are highly experienced in working with all groups of young people; from some of the most challenging and vulnerable young people in the community, to groups of young people who just ‘hang out’ with nothing better to do. 

The team works in areas where they are most needed; known as ‘hotspot areas’ working with young people aged between 11 and 19.

The team supports young people to raise their aspirations offering them new positive experiences that aims to give the young people the right information and self-awareness to make positive decisions in their life and for the future.

They have access to a mobile resource known as the Kontactabus, working with young people in the community enabling youth workers to build trusting relationships and to create discussion; identify the issues faced by young people and by the community, delivering brief interventions on substance misuse, staying safe, healthy relationships. Youth workers support young people to address these issues. 

For example support may include:

• Links to other support agencies

• Support for accessing training

• Discussion on decision making and personal journey

• Challenges and implication discussion on behaviour

• Involvement in issue-based projects

• Participation in positive activities

• Involvement in community initiatives which give something back to the community