AoC responds to the government's 10-year youth plan

Eddie Playfair, Senior Policy Manager, Association of Colleges, said: "Colleges will welcome the government’s youth strategy and planned investment in youth services which, after many years of neglect, is long overdue.

"Over 60% of all 16 to 18-year-olds in publicly-funded education attend colleges and the sector has been calling for more investment in youth support and development.

"We are making the case that youth futures hubs and facilities for young people should include colleges as key locations where young people feel safe and supported. With some additional resources, colleges can contribute to a better offer for young people in their communities and we aim to work with the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport to make this a reality across England.

"Young people need opportunities to develop their skills and contribute to society and the economy, and for the majority of 16 to 18-year-olds, their college will be the ideal setting for a range of positive and constructive activity."