CARDIFF Youth Service has successfully secured funding to enable a pioneering staff development programme that takes learning from other organisations in Toronto, Canada.
Following a winning application process, the initiative funded by TAITH, will empower Cardiff’s youth workers to better support young people who are LGBTQ+, neurodiverse, or facing homelessness.
Nine dedicated staff members participated in intensive workshops and training programmes with a range of leading youth agencies. The training was focussed on fostering inclusive spaces and equipping staff with the latest skills and knowledge to address the unique challenges faced by young people.
The project’s benefits will extend beyond its completion, with clear plans for ongoing dissemination and evaluation to ensure lasting improvements in youth services training and support.
Key highlights include:
- Enhanced Support for Vulnerable Youth: Staff will gain expertise in supporting LGBTQ+ and neurodiverse young people, especially those at risk of homelessness, family breakdown, and social exclusion.
- Inclusive Service Delivery: The programme will help Cardiff Youth Service create dedicated support pathways, ensuring all young people, regardless of identity or neurodiversity – feel safe, understood, and empowered.
- Staff Wellbeing and Development: Training will also be adapted to support neurodiverse staff members, fostering a more inclusive and supportive workplace.
- Knowledge Sharing Across Wales: Participants will develop a new training and curriculum programme, sharing best practices with colleagues and partner agencies throughout Wales.
Cllr Peter Bradbury, Cabinet Member for Tackling Poverty and Supporting Young People, said: “This training will have considerable long-term impact, helping our Cardiff Youth Services to create truly inclusive spaces and support systems for all young people, especially those who need it most.
“It will help bridge the gap in specialised training for staff supporting LGBTQ+ and neurodiverse youth and by learning from international leaders, will assist the service to address discrimination, economic hardship, and vulnerability to homelessness, making a real difference in the lives of young people across Cardiff and Wales.“
As the first UK Child Friendly City, this initiative supports Cardiff Council’s commitment to working to make sure that children’s rights are respected and championed across all sectors where children feel safe, heard, cared for and are able to flourish as a result.
It also reflects the Council’s commitment to building a Stronger Fairer Greener Cardiff, supporting the Council’s ambition to strengthen communities through investment in people and places, promote fairness by ensuring inclusive access to services and opportunities, and advance environmental sustainability for future generations.
For more information, please visit the Cardiff Youth Services website.
