About Essex Youth Service

Essex Youth Service supports young people across Essex, mainly aged 13 to 19, or up to 25 for those with SEND. In some cases, we also work with younger children – such as through our Young Carers team.

Our work ranges from one-to-one support and youth voice opportunities to help with education, employment, emotional wellbeing, and more. We work in schools, hospitals, communities and youth centres across Essex to make sure young people have the support, activities and safe spaces they need to thrive.

What We Do

Community Capacity Building (CCB)

We support volunteers and organisations to run youth clubs, sessions and community activities in Essex. Our goal is to help local groups become confident and independent, while still working alongside us.

We also offer training and ongoing support based on each group’s needs. Some programmes, such as SEND and LGBTQ+ youth groups, are run directly by us. Many of our buildings are also shared with other organisations like Police Cadets or DrySkating.

Young Carers

We support young people aged 0–24 who care for someone at home. This includes short-term one-to-one support, an assessment of their needs and access to fun respite activities.

We also run workshops such as autism awareness, cooking and budgeting, and work closely with schools to help identify and support young carers.

Targeted Youth Work

Our Targeted Youth Advisers support young people facing challenges in school or life – such as low confidence, poor attendance, or emotional wellbeing struggles.

We offer one-to-one and group sessions, often in partnership with schools, to help young people build resilience, manage emotions and reach their potential.

Employability, Skills & Opportunities

We help young people aged 16–18 (or up to 25 with SEND) take the next step into education, employment or training.

Our friendly advisers support with CV writing, interview prep, applications and career advice. We also signpost to local training courses and job opportunities.

Young Essex Assembly (YEA)

YEA is the elected youth council for Essex. It gives young people aged 11–19 (or up to 25 with SEND) the chance to speak up about the issues that matter to them.

Members meet regularly to run campaigns, influence decision-makers and create positive change. Young people can join via election or as Youth Voice Champions.

Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE)

We help young people aged 14–25 complete their Bronze, Silver or Gold DofE Award.

Through expeditions, volunteering and skill-building, DofE helps young people gain confidence, independence and valuable life skills. We provide guidance every step of the way.

Hospital Youth Work Team

We support young people in A&E, especially during times of crisis.

Our youth workers meet young people in hospital settings to provide short-term support and help them access the right services. This work mainly takes place in South Essex.