CEREDIGION Youth Service is inviting young people, families, schools, community groups, partners and residents to help shape the future of youth work across the county by taking part in a public consultation on its draft Youth Work Strategic Plan 2027–2032.
The strategy has been developed following extensive engagement with more than 500 young people, alongside schools, youth workers, volunteers, community organisations and partners from across Ceredigion. It sets out a shared vision for youth work over the next five years and responds to new Welsh Government expectations for youth work planning and delivery.
The draft strategy outlines six key priorities:
- Access to High-Quality Youth Work
- Thriving Rural Communities
- Wellbeing, Belonging and Trusted Relationships
- Youth Voice, Participation and Leadership
- A Skilled, Sustainable, Bilingual Workforce and Volunteer Network
- Partnerships, Communities and Collective Action
The strategy aims to ensure that every young person aged 11–25 can access high-quality youth work opportunities that help them build confidence, develop skills, improve wellbeing and achieve their potential.
As part of the consultation, a young person-friendly version of the strategy has also been produced, making it easier for young people to understand the proposals and share their views.
Gethin Jones, Corporate Manager for Ceredigion Youth Service, said: “This strategy has been shaped by the voices of young people and reflects what they told us matters most: trusted relationships, safe spaces, more opportunities, stronger communities and a genuine say in decisions that affect their lives. Youth work plays a vital role in supporting wellbeing, participation, prevention and personal development. We want to ensure that young people, communities and partners continue to help shape the future of youth work in Ceredigion, and I would encourage everyone to take part in the consultation.”
Young people who contributed to the strategy highlighted a range of priorities, including improving access to opportunities, increasing youth provision in rural communities, supporting wellbeing, strengthening youth voice and ensuring young people are aware of the support available to them.
Dyfan Hunt, Member of the Youth Service said: “This plan is a great idea, and it is good that the youth service has taken on board what young people in local areas have said. I have been a member of the youth service for many years, and I know the benefit that being part of it brings to young people. I’m looking forward to seeing what this plan will bring to other young people.”
Councillor Alun Williams, Deputy Leader of Ceredigion County Council and Cabinet Member for Through Age and Wellbeing, said: “Youth work makes a significant difference to the lives of young people across Ceredigion. It helps young people feel connected, supported and valued, while creating opportunities for them to learn, develop and contribute to their communities. This strategy sets out an ambitious vision for the future and demonstrates our commitment to working alongside young people and partners to ensure that youth work remains accessible, inclusive and responsive to local needs.”
The consultation is now open until 30 September 2026. Feedback received will help inform the final strategy before it is presented to Ceredigion County Council’s Scrutiny Committee later this year.
The consultation documents, including the young person-friendly version, are available on the Council’s website.
For further information or to take part in the consultation, visit: Youth Work Strategic Plan 2027-2032 – Ceredigion County Council
Remember to also follow on social media: Gwasanaeth Ieuenctid Ceredigion Youth Service on Facebook and Instagram and @CeredigionIfanc on TikTok.
