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Young People's Centres

Journalist briefing, December 2006

The NSPCC's young people's centres (YPCs) provide an innovative, child-friendly approach to protecting children and young people from the risk of abuse.

Research shows that it can be difficult for children and young people to tell anyone if they are being abused. They can also find dealing with child protection professionals intimidating. 

YPC's can help children and young people overcome these barriers. The centres are designed to be inviting places where they can get professional help and support on their own terms. The YPC's child protection staff keep a low profile, but are on hand if a young person needs support and advice to deal with problems, including abuse.

Who attends YPCs?

The YPCs are open outside school hours to any child or young person in the local community, not just those who have experienced abuse. There is no lower age limit, but the centres are primarily for children aged 10 to 16 as they are most likely to use the services on offer.

How do young people access a YPC?

The NSPCC has eight YPCs across England and Wales.  The centres operate on a drop-in basis and the young people are free to come and go as they wish. This informal arrangement allows young people to remain in control, which is key to encouraging them to use the YPCs.

What issues can young people be helped with at the YPCs?

In addition to helping those who have experienced abuse, support is available for a wide range of problems; including sensitive issues such as suicide, drug abuse, self-harm, bullying, and being in trouble with the law.

What facilities and services are provided at the YPCs?

The centres offer a mix of facilities and services, depending on the needs of the local community. These can include:

  • One-to-one counselling for children and young people who have been abused.
  • Group forums on issues such as anger management, bullying or personal relationships.
  • Information and advice on subjects such as health, education, children's rights and the legal system.
  • Recreational, social and cultural activities that help build a trusting relationship between staff and the young people.
  • Advocacy services help children and young people have their views and wishes listened to and acted on when they are dealing with for example social services, the health service or the care system.
  • A young person's advisory group - giving young people a chance to have their say about the development of children's services in their community.
  • IT facilities and safe access to the internet enabling young people to explore child protection, health education and community matters at their own pace and without commitment.
  • Referral to other young people's services such as sexual health advice, mental health care, benefits and housing agencies.

How do YPCs work in partnership with other local agencies?

Young People's Centres work closely with a range of local agencies depending on the needs of the young people who visit the centre. These could include drug action teams, teenage pregnancy units, children's social services, youth offending teams, and health services.