Huddersfield Labour MP Harpreet Uppal has called for more support for youth services which she says is vital to the future of young people.

Speaking during a Westminster debate, Ms Uppal said youth services played an important role in strengthening communities, insisting: “Youth services are not a luxury.”

Ms Uppal pointed out that trained youth workers created safe spaces, fostered trusted relationships and helped young people build the confidence and skills needed to thrive.

While acknowledging recent Government initiatives—such as the National Youth Strategy for England and the Young Futures Hubs—Ms Uppal raised concerns about the long-term decline in funding.

Since 2010, local authority spending on youth services in England has been reduced by £1.2 billion in real terms. In Kirklees, funding has decreased by 70%, leaving just £47.76 per young person.

“Despite financial constraints, organisations like Positive Stepz, Conscious Youth Hub and Central Stars Youth Club continue to support young people in Huddersfield,” said Ms Uppal.

“But many have had to reduce their services due to funding cuts, limiting opportunities for our youth.”