Labour MP pushes for law to make youth services a statutory priority in England

A new bill aimed at securing consistent, high-quality youth services across England has been introduced in Parliament, as campaigners and politicians alike respond to years of cuts and local disparities in provision.

Croydon East Labour MP Natasha Irons brought forward a Youth Services Bill under the 10-minute rule — a mechanism that allows backbench MPs to introduce legislation and spotlight key issues. The proposed bill would strengthen councils’ statutory duties to deliver youth services, requiring local authorities to plan, resource and consult young people on services, rather than treating them as optional extras.

Supporters of the bill argue that youth services must be recognised as essential local infrastructure, on a par with health and education , to support young people’s wellbeing, development and future prospects. It would also establish benchmarks for sufficiency, including expectations for qualified staff and accessible services so that all young people can benefit.

The campaign comes alongside the government’s recently published National Youth Strategy, backed by more than £500 million in investment — the first comprehensive strategy for youth services in nearly 15 years. The plan pledges to build or refurbish up to 250 youth centres, launch a network of 50 Young Futures Hubs, and pair thousands of young people with dedicated youth workers and trusted adults.

Debate on the bill is expected to continue in the coming weeks as MPs consider how best to embed a nationwide commitment to youth work into law.