Scottish Labour has published its 2026 manifesto, including proposals to restore the Cashback for Communities Youth Work Fund and develop a new preventative model for youth work. These proposals reflect the sector’s focus on early intervention and signal continued recognition of the role youth work plays in supporting young people and communities.
Scottish Labour has published its 2026 manifesto, setting out its proposals for public services, the economy and communities.
Within this, there is recognition of the role youth work plays in supporting young people, preventing harm, and strengthening communities.
The inclusion of specific proposals on youth work reflects a growing understanding across political parties of the sector’s contribution.
The manifesto sets out plans to:
These proposals connect closely with the core role of youth work.
Cashback funding has supported local provision for many years, particularly in communities facing higher levels of inequality and crime. Its proposed restoration is a positive step.
The emphasis on prevention is also welcome. Youth work is rooted in early support, creating safe spaces, building relationships, and working with young people before issues escalate.
Wider alignment with national priorities
There are also wider areas in the manifesto that align with the outcomes youth work supports.
Scottish Labour sets out proposals on education, skills, community safety and tackling inequality, areas where youth work is already active.
Proposals such as industry work placements for all secondary pupils, “Taster Apprenticeships”, and clearer routes into employment reflect a focus on supporting young people into positive destinations.
Plans to expand access to after-school activities, improve support for young people with additional needs, and widen opportunities in arts, culture and sport reflect the broader experiences that support young people’s development.
Measures aimed at reducing youth violence, including Youth Remediation Orders and early intervention through school-based policing, also point to the importance of engaging with young people early.
Youth work contributes across these areas through relationships, informal learning, and community-based support.
Scope to go further
While these proposals are welcome, there is scope to go further in setting out a clear and consistent approach to youth work.
Areas that could be developed further include:
These areas are reflected in A Right, A Space, A Future, which sets out a long-term vision for youth work in Scotland.
As the election approaches, there is an opportunity to build on the proposals in the manifesto and provide greater clarity on the role youth work will play in supporting young people and communities.