Bill Walker MSP signs youth work pledge

Dunfermline MSP Bill Walker has added his name to a pledge to ensure sustained and long-term investment in the future of youth work.

Thirty-two MSPs signed the pledge during a YouthLink Scotland reception in Holyrood, held in honour of the outstanding winners from the National Youth Worker of the Year Awards 2013.

The pledge asks politicians to acknowledge the value of youth work and the positive impact it has on the lives of young people. It also states the need for sustained and long-term investment in the sector.

Mr Walker said: “Congratulations to all the winners of the National Youth Worker Awards. These young people have shown generous and enthusiastic commitment to their peers and communities, which must be recognised with long-term investment so more young people can participate in this excellent work.”

Jim Sweeney, Chief Executive of YouthLink Scotland, said: “We welcome the recent announcement from the Scottish Government for an additional £10 million in funding, on top of the new £20 million Third Sector Early Intervention Fund (TSEIF). National Youth Organisations are an important part of the commonwealth of Scottish Society, and they help deliver many of the national outcomes including those around lifelong learning, health and employability.”

The winners of the 2013 Awards range from volunteers who have overcome challenging personal circumstances to mentor and support their peers, to those involved in innovative projects that have brought young people together through a shared love of music.

Bill Walker signs YouthLink Scotland pledge