Our latest policy briefing outlines the critical roles youth workers play in supporting young people at increased risk of suicidal ideation and dealing with the impacts of suicide on the family and in the community.
YouthLink Scotland believes the Scottish Government should consider the critical role of statutory and voluntary youth volunteer work when reviewing the Suicide Prevention Strategy for Scotland. Youth workers are often in critical roles supporting people at increased risk of suicidal ideation.
Therefore, promoting the essence of community-based youth work is crucial. The protective factors of youth work and its reassuring presence are fundamental to enhancing our connections and a pillar of civil society in Scotland.
To support our policy position, we have published a new policy briefing paper, outlining the critical roles youth workers play in supporting young people at increased risk of suicidal ideation and dealing with the impacts of suicide on the family and in the community.
A positive next step is one where the Scottish Government considers the vital role of statutory and voluntary youth work when reviewing the Suicide Prevention Strategy for Scotland.
An optimistic future is one where we provide the conditions to mitigate and minimise the spread of social isolation by investing in our crucial community assets and ensuring that local authorities prevent suicide in their areas. Everyone wins from a thriving youth work sector.
Our previous submission to the Equality and Human Rights Commission demonstrates the impact and value of their work. It promotes a positive image of young people and youth work in this public policy space.
We ask that we be meaningfully included in the next steps for any renewed plan to tackle social isolation in Scotland and youth work explicitly named as a key partner in the strategy.
To find out more about this paper, please contact YouthLink Scotland’s Policy & Research Manager Kevin Kane.