We also launched a regional peer research project to investigate whether local authorities across the region are fulfilling their statutory duty to provide a local youth offer. This guidance states that all local authorities must provide a sufficient quantity of both educational and recreational activities for young people’s personal and social development. It also emphasizes that young people should be involved in defining what ‘sufficient’ means and that a lack of funding is not an acceptable reason for failing to provide these services.

The project team will research whether local authorities in the Yorkshire and Humber region are providing these necessary provisions, conducting needs assessments, and effectively promoting the activities available to young people. Their findings will be compiled into a report, holding local authorities accountable and ensuring that young people’s access to vital services is prioritized.