Will the Minister outline whether the Welsh Government has plans to undertake research on youth provision and life outcomes in Wales?
We currently have no plans to undertake research on youth provision and life outcomes in Wales.
In terms of assessment of the impact of local youth clubs on the life outcomes of young people, research undertaken in 2021 to inform the development of the youth work strategy brought together existing evidence about the challenges and opportunities facing youth work in Wales. This included details on measuring the effectiveness of youth work in Wales and the anticipated outcomes and impacts of youth work. This research can be accessed via https://www.gov.wales/research-inform-development-youth-work-strategy.
The third phase of the Youth Work Funding Review currently underway will however aim to undertake an analysis to quantify the impact and economic effectiveness of funding provided to youth work in Wales. This is review is due to conclude later in 2024.