‘We’re on a cliff edge’: the struggle to keep youth services alive in Knowsley
Youth services in Knowsley, UK, are struggling to survive amidst rising demands and a lack of resources, leaving local youth vulnerable to crime and drugs.
In Knowsley, located on the edges of Liverpool, youth services face significant challenges amid rising demand and insufficient resources. Toni Dodd, the manager at Karma in the Community, expressed her frustrations about her inability to reach all the young people in need. With children increasingly vulnerable to crime and drug use, the youth service's existence hangs by a thread, highlighting the essential role these services play in mitigating risks for at-risk youth. Research conducted by the Social Investment Business in collaboration with the University of Leeds has revealed that Knowsley is home to the most youth work "black holes" in England. This term refers to areas with high needs for youth services due to deprivation and rising antisocial behavior, but where services are either sparse or non-existent. The situation is exacerbated by the fact that students in the borough lack access to A-level courses, compelling them to travel outside the area for advanced education. The implications of such findings are alarming, as they point to the urgent need for increased investment and support for youth services in Knowsley. Without adequate resources, the local youth may continue to struggle, leading to further challenges for the community. Addressing these gaps in youth services is critical to fostering a safer and more supportive environment for young people in Knowsley.