Youth Work Week Wales 23 – 30 June 2026: Youth Work Works

Every year, Youth Work Week gives us a chance to celebrate the amazing work happening with young people across Wales. This year’s theme is simple but powerful, and it’s “Youth Work Works.”

At the INFO Shop in Wrexham, we see that every single day.

“I came in not knowing what services I needed and Amy helped me get counselling with Andrea, get a TAC officer, get referred to CAMHS and get the medical help I need for my physical health. I love everyone here and don’t think people should be afraid to come in and ask for help”

Ela, 19

Youth work isn’t just about running activities or having somewhere to go after school. It’s about relationships, trust, opportunities and making sure young people have someone in their corner when life gets hard.

For a lot of young people, things don’t always go to plan. School can be stressful, friendships can get messy, family life can be difficult, and sometimes it can feel like nobody really understands what you’re dealing with. That’s where youth work comes in.

At the INFO Shop, our youth workers support young people aged 11-25 with whatever is going on in their lives. Whether it’s housing worries, mental health, relationships, money problems, careers advice, sexual health, LGBTQ+ support, or just needing someone to talk to, we’re here to listen without judgement and help young people find the right support. Youth work is built on trust, choice and respect, giving young people the space to make informed decisions about their own lives.

“I got kicked out of my parent’s house and was left behind by my family, so I was told by a friend to seek help at the INFO Shop and In2change and they have helped me massively and I can’t thank them enough. All the staff have been massively supportive and amazing, so thank you all ❤”

• Lewis Cole

Ok, so, what does “Youth Work Works” actually mean?

It means young people having a safe place where they can be themselves.

It means building confidence to speak up and have their voice heard.

It means learning new skills, overcoming challenges and discovering strengths they didn’t know they had.

It means having trusted adults who genuinely care and believe in their potential.

Kyle was awarded for his volunteering at INFO Shop by AVOW; recognising his valued support to our service. Kyle previously used our services at INFO before aging out and then decided to volunteer for us! His effort’s not only support our service but also build on Kyle’s own skills which he can take forward in his future endeavours.

Well done Kyle!

Across Wales, youth work helps young people develop socially, emotionally and educationally. It supports them to gain life skills, build confidence, make positive choices and shape their own futures. Youth work happens because young people choose to engage, making it one of the most powerful ways to support their development.

We see young people who walk through our doors feeling unsure of themselves and leave feeling more confident.

We see young people accessing support when they need it most.

We see young people finding opportunities, achieving goals and taking positive steps towards the future they want.

“INFO Shop helped me with my wellbeing and helped me apply for my provisional drivers licence as a second form of ID , so I didn’t stress about using or losing my passport”

Tallulah, 20

Sometimes the biggest success isn’t something that goes on a certificate or a CV. Sometimes it’s just knowing that a young person feels listened to, valued and supported.

And that is why youth work works.

This Youth Work Week, we’re celebrating not only the profession but also the young people who inspire us every day. Their resilience, creativity, humour and determination remind us why youth work matters.

To all the young people we work with – thank you for trusting us to be part of your journey.

And to all the amazing youth workers across Wales: keep doing what you do best!!