Evaluation of myplace

Introduction

This report summarises the national evaluation of myplace, a programme that funded high‑quality youth centres to give young people safe spaces, activities and access to support. It outlines why the centres were created, what they aimed to achieve and how they operated.

The report is for funders, policymakers and youth sector organisations.

Findings

The evaluation found that myplace centres provided modern, welcoming spaces offering a wide range of activities, advice and support tailored to young people’s needs. The centres helped improve young people’s:

• confidence

• social skills

• safety

• engagement in positive activities

• access to information and services

Many young people, particularly those facing disadvantage, benefited from trusted relationships with staff, structured programmes and opportunities for leadership. Centres also strengthened local partnerships and contributed to wider community use of youth facilities. However, challenges included sustainability, funding pressures and variation in capacity across locations.

Overall, myplace made a positive contribution to young people’s personal and social development.