We recognise that many of these matters are devolved, however, Scottish MPs will have the opportunity to vote on these issues.
On top of restricted housing opportunities and financial uncertainty, young people are growing up during a period where youth crime, mental health difficulties and loneliness are at an all-time high, making prospects seem hopeless. With the government’s support, we can change these prospects to create a brighter future – a new era for young people.
With this in mind, recommendations in YMCA’s manifesto champion the fundamental basics of what all young people deserve, from having a roof over their heads to reliable income, quality healthcare and the opportunity to contribute to their community. In order to make this a reality, YMCA is calling on the next government to:
- Ensure that in relation to Brexit, the needs and aspirations of young people are considered and protected for the future
- Substantially reinvest in youth services so that all young people have access to quality support such as youth clubs and youth workers
- Remove or minimise major barriers such as cost of rent, deposits and bills, to help ensure all young people have a home and the chance to live independently
- Review the Universal Credit system and sanctions regime to properly support young people in need, ensuring a stable income for all
- Help young people to thrive at work and provide for themselves by offering a real living wage and increasing support for entry into apprenticeship schemes
- Ease the pressure on families and offer young people the best start in life by creating a fair and sustainable childcare system for all
- Take a holistic approach to wellbeing, reducing the cost of physical activities and ensuring appropriate mental health care is in place and well resourced