The City of Edinburgh Council has developed an online Youth Work Map that will help young people discover and participate in the city’s wide range of youth projects.
The map is the first of its kind and will provide a unique guide to the many organisations that provide vital services and recreational activities for young people, from youth clubs to counselling and support services. It is designed to highlight the diversity of services offered throughout Edinburgh and to help make information about them more easily accessible.
Users can search by categories such as activities and opening times, or by clicking on a specific point of the map to find out more about opportunities in their area.
A recent survey by the Council found that at least a quarter of the city’s 11 – 14 year olds are involved in youth work and many remain active in an organisation after ‘growing out’ of them, by becoming a volunteer or project worker. As a result of this, a quarter of Edinburgh’s current youth work workforce is aged under 25.
Participating in these projects provides valuable experience as well as potential training and development opportunities, which can enhance employability.
Education Convener, Councillor Paul Godzik, said: “Edinburgh benefits from excellent youth work services and a wide range of activities are available throughout the city. These services are vital and make a real difference to the lives of children and young people from all backgrounds. I would encourage people to have a look at the map to find out ways that they can become involved in these varied and highly rewarding activities.”
The Youth Work Map includes over 250 youth services and the Council would welcome information from any agencies that may have been missed.
City of Edinburgh Council