New four‑year youth plan approved to give West Northants young people a stronger start in life

A bold new strategy aimed at improving opportunities, wellbeing and support for thousands of young people across West Northamptonshire has been approved by the Council’s Cabinet. The Youth Strategy 2026–2030 sets out how the Council and its partners will work together to help young people stay safe,...

The strategy provides a shared framework for the Council, partners and communities to ensure children and young people feel supported, listened to and able to reach their full potential. 

Developed through engagement with young people, families and key partners, the Youth Strategy focuses on prevention and early support, coordination of youth services, improving mental health and wellbeing, widening access to positive activities, and supporting young people as they move into education, employment and adulthood. 

It also sets out how the Council will work closely with schools, voluntary and community organisations, health services, the police and other partners to deliver joined up, locally based support that reflects the different needs of young people across West Northamptonshire. 

This strategy is about making sure every young person in West Northamptonshire has the chance to thrive, regardless of their background or where they live.
By focusing on early help, strong partnerships and listening directly to young people, we can provide the right support at the right time – helping to build confidence, improve wellbeing and open up real opportunities for the future.
Residents have told us how important it is that we invest in our young people, and this strategy provides a clear plan for how we will do that over the next four years.Councillor Michael Stratton, Cabinet Member for Children, Families, and Education

Key benefits of the Youth Strategy include: 

• Clearer and more coordinated support for young people and families 
• Stronger links between schools, youth services and community organisations 
• Improved access to positive activities, skills development and safe spaces 
• A greater focus on wellbeing, resilience and preventing problems before they escalate 
• A stronger voice for young people in shaping local services and local decisions 

The Youth Strategy supports wider Council priorities around making West Northamptonshire the best place to grow up, helping young people to feel part of their communities and to contribute positively to the area’s future. 

The full Youth Strategy 2026–2030 is available on the Council’s website.