Devon County Council completes first stage of it's youth service review

Devon County Council has completed the first stage of its review of Devon’s youth services.

The review, launched in August, aims to look at how the council offers its support and services to young people in Devon and in particular how to support those in the greatest need by improving how youth work is linked with early help and prevention services.

The review was launched following Devon’s children’s protection services being given an inadequate rating by regulating body Ofsted.

The review has sought the views of over 600 people, 130 youth workers and 140 community and voluntary representatives using a dedicated online service.

It has also worked with several statutory agencies and the Devon Youth Parliment.

Councillor William Mumford, Cabinet Member responsible for Children’s sevices thanked those who took part in the review.

Cllr Mumford said: “The Youth Service is a key part of the offer we deliver to our young people and communities and the feedback we have received will be invaluable in helping us shape its future.

“It is very clear that the service needs to change if we are to continue to meet our statutory duties and serve our communities well with the resources available.

“We need to respond quickly to the recent Ofsted inspection of Devon’s Children’s Services which highlighted the need to strengthen our early help and preventative services targeting our most vulnerable young people and youth work could have a key role in this.

The results of the review are expected be presented at a series of events in October and November.

Two feedback meetings for community and voluntary groups and partner organisations are planned for Tuesday 29 October, at 3.30pm and 6.30pm, at Exeter City Football Club, St James Park, Stadium Way, Exeter, EX4 6PX.

Feedback sessions are planned for young people on:
• Wednesday 6 November, from 7pm to 9pm at The Junction Youth Centre, Wain Lane, Newton Abbot, TQ12 2SH
• Thursday 7 November, from 7pm to 9pm at Bideford Youth Centre, The Pill, Kingsley Road, Bideford, EX39 2PF
• Friday 8 November, from 7pm to 9pm at The 100 Club, Wear Barton Road, Exeter, EX2 7EH.

There will then be further consultation to decide what the action the council will carry out following these events.