The Welsh Government’s Cabinet Secretary for Education, Lynne Neagle MS, recently visited a youth club in Blaenau Gwent to see first-hand how a collaborative initiative between the Council’s Youth Service and local secondary schools is helping to break down barriers to regular school attendance.
During her visit to the newly refurbished Cwm Youth and Community Centre, Ms Neagle met with young people, youth workers, and partner organisations to learn more about the positive impact of the Youth Service’s work.
In the lead-up to Youth Work Week in Wales, the visit highlighted the efforts of the Youth Service’s 11–16 team, who are supporting young people to re-engage with education, improve their wellbeing, and build brighter futures. Dedicated youth workers are embedded in every secondary school across the borough, offering tailored one-to-one and group support to meet individual needs.
One young person, Summer Morris, who has been supported by the Youth Service since the age of 14, is now giving back as a volunteer.
Summer says: “When going through school I went through a difficult time, but thanks to the youth workers who supported me in many ways right through and even through college now I want to be that person that supports young people. Doing the Level 2/3 youth work course it is giving me the skills and knowledge to do so. Youth workers helped me in times I needed help so now I want to give back by giving young people the support they may need!”
The Cabinet Secretary for Education, Lynne Neagle commented:
“Youth work provides far more than just activities; it creates safe spaces where young people can truly flourish and reach their full potential.
“I’m delighted to see the impact this scheme is having in Blaenau Gwent, not only in improving school attendance, but also enhancing young people’s wellbeing and confidence. It is giving young people a voice and helping them make positive choices and seize opportunities that will shape their futures.”
Councillor Sue Edmunds, Blaenau Gwent Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People & Families, said:
“We are working closely with our schools and partners to improve attendance across Blaenau Gwent. Youth workers play a vital role in this effort—they are trusted figures who support young people to attend school, achieve their goals, and lead safe, happy, and healthy lives.”
