South Lakes Youth Work Summit Fosters Connection and Inspiration
First-ever summit in South Lakeland brings together youth sector professionals to share learning, discuss challenges, and explore future opportunities.
By Megan Worthington
••2 min read
AI
Diverse group of youth workers and professionals at the South Lakes Youth Work Summit.
The first South Lakes Youth Work Summit, held on 5 September in South Lakeland, united youth workers and organisations for a day of learning and networking.
The inaugural South Lakes Youth Work Summit, hosted by the South Lakes Youth Work Network (SLYWN) on 5 September, convened youth workers, volunteers, trustees, community organisations, and partners from across South Lakeland. The event aimed to foster learning, connection, and inspiration within the youth sector.
The SLYWN, a collaborative network dedicated to enhancing support and opportunities for young people in South Lakeland, organised the summit to celebrate achievements, address challenges, and explore future prospects. Attendees participated in workshops, discussions, and networking sessions covering topics such as reflective practice, courageous conversations, organisational sustainability, and sharing best practices.
Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with descriptions including "high energy, insightful, motivating", "warm, supportive, open", and "creative, energising, informative". The summit was particularly valued for enabling new connections across the sector, facilitating the sharing of experiences, and learning from colleagues in different organisations and communities.
Many attendees reported a renewed sense of energy and inspiration, alongside an increased awareness of the support and opportunities available within the region. The event underscored the vital role of youth work in building confidence, developing potential, and strengthening a sense of belonging for young people.
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"The SLYWN has continued to grow in strength and provides valuable grassroots support to both established and emerging youth work providers. We have helped with funding, which has enabled them to organise a Youth Work Summit. Our Youth Work Summit is another important stage on our journey to grow and sustain what we can offer our young people. We wish it and our SLYWN every success now and in the future."
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"The Francis Scott Trust was proud to support the South Lakes Youth Work Summit. Youth Work plays a vital role in helping young people build confidence, develop their potential, strengthen their sense of belonging and thrive in our communities. The summit provided a forum for practitioners to share learning and collaborate, supporting the continuation of quality youth services locally."
