The life-changing career that’s impacting young lives in North East Lincolnshire

Youth work is more than just a job - it's a dynamic and impactful profession that shapes the lives of young people.

As a youth worker, you’ll blend fun, structure, and new opportunities to inspire and support young people, helping them to broaden their horizons, build social skills, and find spaces where they can truly be themselves. It’s a skilled career with its own code of practice and the National Youth Work Curriculum guiding the way, ensuring that every interaction is purposeful and meaningful.

What makes youth work so unique? It's the variety and unpredictability! No two days are ever the same. One day, you might be engaging in detached outreach on the streets; the next, running activities at a youth club or providing support within a school or hospital setting. Each young person comes with their own set of challenges and opportunities for growth, turning every moment into a chance for learning and development.

Essential skills for success

To thrive as a youth worker, you’ll need more than just a passion for helping others. Here’s what makes a great youth worker:

• Empathy and tact: Many situations can be sensitive, so it’s crucial to handle them with care.
• Excellent communication skills: The ability to connect with young people, their families, and other stakeholders.
• Resilience and strength: A fair, non-judgmental attitude is key, and building trust requires patience and perseverance.
• Leadership and motivation: Inspiring young people and guiding them toward positive choices is at the heart of the role.

Pathways into youth work

There are multiple ways to kickstart a rewarding career in youth work, no matter where you’re starting from:

• Formal education: Pursue a degree in youth work or a degree-level apprenticeship for structured training.
• Volunteering: Gain hands-on experience before taking formal qualifications.
• Career change: Transition into youth work later in life by pursuing relevant training. This could include university courses, college programmes, or on-the-job training through apprenticeships.

Opportunities in North East Lincolnshire

North East Lincolnshire offers diverse opportunities for youth workers to make a real difference. You could find yourself working with:

• Local councils: For example, North East Lincolnshire Council 's Early Help Services focus on supporting young people and families through early intervention.
• Charitable organisations: Supportive roles are often found in community centres, local charities, and youth clubs.
• Educational institutions: Schools and colleges often need youth workers to provide additional support for students.
• Youth Justice services: Engage with young people who need guidance through challenging situations.
• Health and wellbeing organisations: Work alongside healthcare providers to support the mental and physical well-being of young people.

Ready for a change?

Whether you’re working in a structured setting or getting creative with grassroots initiatives, youth workers in this region play a crucial role in guiding young people through their journey to adulthood. It’s a career where you can truly make an impact, one day at a time.

In partnership with YMCA Humber , our Skills Bootcamp in Youth Work provides aspiring youth workers with the specialised knowledge and skills essential for addressing the range of issues that young people face today. At the end of the 16-week programme, after 60 hours of placement in industry, our students receive a Level 3 qualification recognised by the Joint Negotiating Committee (JNC).

Our first Skills Bootcamp in Youthwork saw a full cohort, with four local youth service providers having their staff and volunteers join the course for this essential training.

Don’t worry - you haven’t missed out! More start dates are coming in March 2025. Express your early interest with Donna Chandler at the YMCA Humber.

?? 07356115802

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