Youth and Community Worker

A job as a Youth and Community Worker involves working with young people and adults from varying backgrounds, and can include involvement in various activities within different settings. An open-minded and approachable person is a must!

The Job

Youth Workers work mainly with the young, whereas Community Workers work with varying groups within the community. The main focus of the work is to connect with people from various backgrounds in order to encourage development in different areas of their life.

Youth Workers can be based at a local club or centre and be involved in the organisation of various activities and outings for young people, as well as offering one to one support or counselling on specific matters. Projects involving Youth Workers can vary in size, and range from those concerned with health education and young offenders, to youth clubs and sports groups. Youth projects provide an informal atmosphere to encourage openness from the youths and can often concentrate on particular age groups depending upon the project focus.

Some Youth Workers also work on 'detached' basis and go out to meet young people in their regular hangouts. This can include approaching youths at shopping centres or on the street to offer help and advice on a range of topics and issues affecting them.

The role of a Youth Worker can vary greatly and at times can be difficult when trying to connect with new youths or dealing with particular problems or issues. However, the job can be very rewarding when considering the positive influence it can have on young people's development.

In comparison, Community Workers work with a wider section of the community and can provide support to adults and young people. They work with various groups and aim to ensure equal access to opportunities for all community members. Community Workers help others to identify problems within their surroundings and assist in working towards a solution. The work can include involvement in various neighbourhood projects or community groups, and range from family activity groups to drug awareness or dealing with local issues.

Skills Needed

A number of skills and abilities are required to carry out the role of Youth and Community Worker successfully and include;

• Excellent communication and listening skills
• Ability to relate to young people and community members from a wide range of backgrounds, and establish good relationships
• Be approachable and earn the trust of others
• Understand the issues, concerns and interests of young people and community members
• Be interested in a range of activities that young people and other community members enjoy
• Have enthusiasm for the work you are involved in and be willing to work evenings and weekends
• A strong personality with a supportive and understanding approach
• Have good team-working and organisation skills
• A commitment to equal opportunities

Useful Training

There are a number of qualifications available for people interested in becoming a Youth and Community Worker reflecting the various settings that can be worked in. It is generally expected that people working in this role hold, or are working towards, a nationally recognised qualification.

Voluntary or paid experience of working with young people or community groups is regarded highly and may be helpful when trying to get a job as a Youth and Community Worker. It is possible to gain part time, support or voluntary work in this area without a qualification, and receive on the job training to help work towards a vocational qualification.