Our response to Budget announcements for children and young adults
There are still major system changes needed to improve outcomes for children and young people – and more funding must be committed and better utilised to make that happen.
Yesterday’s Budget introduced some measures that could help, such as investment in the Youth Guarantee and fully funded apprenticeships for under-25s in small and medium-sized businesses. This will support efforts to tackle rising youth unemployment and create clearer routes into training and work. Increases to the Living Wage and Minimum Wage for 18 to 20-year-olds are also a step towards greater financial security.
We welcome the commitment to fix the Housing Benefit and Universal Credit ‘cliff edge’ for those in supported housing – a challenge faced by many of the young people we work with. This change will help them move into work without losing the safety net they need, alongside measures to cut household bills and ease pressure on residents and housing providers.
Reviews into youth provision and homelessness services are a start, but reviews alone won’t break down barriers. Long-term investment and real funding are essential to give young people the opportunities they deserve.
It’s also disappointing that there was no progress on business rates relief for charities. This will continue to put a strain on vital services that children and young adults rely on every day.
What is needed is sustained investment in youth services, housing, mental health and employment support. Alongside that investment, it will be vital to change the systems that are currently allowing so many young people to fall through the gaps and not get the support, advice and opportunities they need.
