Youth Futures Foundation · 2024
This Demos report examines the Youth Employment Hubs programme run by DWP in partnership with local authorities, charities and training providers across England. Drawing on site visits, focus groups with young people, and interviews with Hub managers and practitioners, it finds that Hubs are largely working well: young people value the welcoming environment, relational support, and holistic services compared to Jobcentres. The report identifies key weaknesses — notably short-term funding, low public awareness, and inconsistent data sharing — and makes 17 recommendations including committing £100 million annual funding, making all Hubs open access, and expanding the network to cover every local authority area.