Residents invited to shape the future of youth provision in St Helens
Residents across St Helens borough are being encouraged to have their say on the future of youth services as part of a borough-wide needs assessment aimed at better understanding what support young people need to thrive.
Article date: 30 June 2026
St Helens Borough Council is working in partnership with Youth Focus North West to gather views from young people, parents and carers, and those working with young people to help shape future activities, services and opportunities.
The feedback will play a vital role in informing plans for youth provision across the borough so that services can reflect on what matters most to local communities and responds to current and emerging needs.
As part of a wider vision for the future, the council is progressing exciting plans to redevelop the iconic Gamble Building in St Helens town centre — including the creation of a new youth zone offer that will provide a dedicated, modern space for young people.
This new facility will complement a range of existing youth provision already operating across the borough, delivered by organisations such as Vibe UK on behalf of the council.
Councillor Michael Chesworth, St Helens Borough Council's Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said:
"We are committed to making sure that every young person in St Helens borough can benefit from high-quality opportunities, support and spaces where they can feel safe, valued and inspired.
"This needs assessment is an important opportunity for young people, families and those who work with them to have their say and help shape the future of youth provision across the borough.
"I would encourage everyone with an interest in supporting our young people to take a few minutes to complete the survey and make their voice heard. Tell us what you think is working well, what could be improved, and what services or opportunities young people would like to see more of in the future."
Three short surveys have been launched to gather feedback from different groups:
- Young people (aged 11-25)
- Parents and carers
- Youth sector staff and volunteers
The surveys are open until 7 August 2026, and responses from across the community are vital to ensuring a strong and inclusive youth offer for the future.
Residents can take part by completing the relevant online survey:
- Young people: Take the survey
- Parents/carers: Take the survey
- Youth sector staff: Take the survey