Young people in Kingston and across the country are set to benefit from a major £88 million government investment in youth services, aimed at reversing over a decade of cuts and creating new opportunities for young people to thrive.

The funding will support youth clubs, after-school activities, and uniformed organisations like Scouts and Guides, helping to reconnect young people with their communities, especially after years of reduced services and rising social isolation.

Kezia Coleman, Chair of Kingston and Surbiton Labour and a local parent, said: "I'm delighted this investment is coming and will benefit our young people in Kingston.

"As a mother, I have felt frustrated by the limited options currently available. Young people are an important part of our communities and should have access to safe spaces and opportunities."

She added: "There hasn't been a National Youth Strategy in decades, and it's brilliant that young people have not only been put at the heart of this one but also consulted during the process."

The Building Creative Futures programme includes:

• £22.5 million to fund after-school enrichment in up to 400 schools — including sport, music, art, outdoor activities, and volunteering
• £30.5 million to improve youth club buildings and equipment in areas of highest need
• £8 million for local authority pilots to strengthen local youth offers
• £19 million to fund over a million extra hours of youth work in areas with high anti-social behaviour
• £7.5 million to create thousands of new places in organisations like Scouts, Guides, and Police Cadets

Kingston Labour says it supports this investment as a vital step toward rebuilding youth provision that has been severely cut in recent years.

It added: "The party is committed to ensuring that all young people, no matter their background, have the chance to develop skills, build confidence, and feel part of their community."

You can find out more about the investment here.