During a recent trip to Poland, a country that has become a second home to me – thanks to my Polish wife – I had the opportunity to witness firsthand the stark contrast in how youth services are funded and supported compared to the UK.
Youth services in Poland: well funded and well used
Staying with my wife’s relatives, I observed a scene that, unfortunately, is becoming all too rare in the UK. The children of the family were preparing for their weekend activities – youth clubs focused primarily on sports, with volleyball being the most popular.
What struck me immediately was the sheer number of young people involved. We dropped the kids off at the local youth centre, and I was amazed at how packed the sessions were. It was clear this wasn’t a one-off. These kinds of activities are a regular part of life for Polish children, and families like my wife’s are able to easily access them because the government funds these services. Families only pay a small fee, making them accessible to many, and children attend at least twice a week.
Speaking to my relative, as we were dropping off their child, I couldn’t help but draw a comparison. In my experience, I said, there’s nothing quite like this in the UK. They were shocked by this, as of course there is still a perception outside of the UK, that we have a very progressive society that looks after everyone. They explained that it’s easy for families in Poland to send their children to youth clubs like these because the government ensures there is funding to make sure they’re there. We began to discuss why the same isn’t true in the UK.
Polish appreciation for youth services
My relative, originally from Bulgaria, suggested it might be down to the broader approach to youth engagement in Poland and other eastern European countries – countries that have emerged from communist rule and, commendably in my opinion, ensured that these types of activities remain a priority for their communities.
The irony is that these youth services – dating back to the communist era – are still cherished and appreciated today. They provide a structured environment for young people to develop confidence, make friends, and stay active, all of which contribute to better mental and physical health and, more importantly, a sense of hope for the future.
In Poland, government funding for youth services has remained consistent, providing young people with access to activities that not only keep them engaged but also contribute to their social, emotional, and physical development. This is reflected in the continued success of youth clubs and community activities throughout the country. These services are seen as essential to building a cohesive, well-rounded society – something that the UK, unfortunately, seems to have neglected over the last two decades at least.
A stark contrast: poor funding for youth services in the UK
In comparison, the UK has experienced a dramatic decline in the funding for youth provisions. Between 2011 and 2021, real-term funding for youth services in England plummeted by over 60%, from £1.058bn to just £408.5mn. This has led to the closure of more than 1,200 youth centres across the country, leaving many young people without safe and structured spaces to go.
The consequences of these cuts are felt deeply in communities across the UK. Without sufficient access to youth services, many young people are left isolated, vulnerable, and at risk of falling into negative cycles of disengagement. The lack of investment in youth clubs and services exacerbates issues such as mental health struggles, lack of direction, and in some cases, involvement in anti-social behaviour. The closure of youth centres directly affects the future prospects of young people, preventing them from gaining the life skills, confidence, and sense of community that such programmes provide.
The importance of government investment in youth services
Reflecting on my experience in Poland, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of disappointment that the UK has not placed similar importance on funding youth services. In Poland, despite its communist history, youth provisions remain a vital part of society’s fabric, cherished for the positive impact they have on young people. The services are not just about keeping children busy – they are about giving young people the hope and opportunity to develop, grow, and become positive contributors to society.
In contrast, the UK’s lack of investment in youth services is not just a matter of policy – it’s a matter of lost potential for the next generation. Young people need more than just the basics; they need access to structured opportunities that foster their development, increase their confidence, and build their social networks. Without these opportunities, many are left to navigate a complicated world on their own, without the support and guidance that these services provide.
A call for change
Youth services should not be a luxury. They should be a priority in the UK just as they are in Poland. The government’s investment in youth services is not just an investment in the present – it is an investment in the future of the country. By supporting young people today, we can help ensure that they grow into the confident, capable, and engaged members of society of tomorrow.
The question we must ask ourselves is simple: if we don’t prioritise youth services now, what kind of future are we creating for the next generation? By looking to Europe, particularly countries like Poland, we can see what is possible when youth services are well-funded and properly supported.
The UK should learn from these examples and reinvest in its young people, creating a brighter future for all.
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