The Youth Investment Fund: Learning and Insight Paper Seven. Findings from a shared evaluation of open access youth provision. Technical Report

Introduction

This evaluation report shares the findings from the Youth Investment Fund (YIF) based on a quantitative impact and process evaluation. It examines who engaged with open‑access youth provision, the activities experienced, and how provision supported young people’s development.

It’s intended for:

• policymakers

• funders

• evaluation specialists

• youth sector organisations

Findings

The report found that YIF services engaged diverse groups of young people across funded regions and delivered a wide range of activities. Analysis of results showed statistically significant improvements in areas such as:

• self‑confidence

• communication

• social skills

• wellbeing for young people attending for at least 3 months

Feedback showed that youth provision is generally high quality and valued by young people.

The report identified factors influencing impact, finding that higher quality provision led to better outcomes. Consistency of attendance by young people and the types of activities offered also had an impact.

The evaluation found youth organisations are generally reaching young people who need them. However, more attention should be paid to supporting the specific needs of girls and young women. Particularly those from ethnic minority backgrounds.