Pilot scheme set to transform services for young people in Shropshire

Shropshire Council has been selected as a pilot Pathfinder area for the Government’s Local Youth Transformation Fund (LYTF) – a move that could transform how the council supports and works alongside young people.

Just 12 councils have been selected to take part in the pilot, meaning Shropshire is one of a small number of councils nationally leading the way in rebuilding more inclusive, youth-led service provision.

Through the pilot the government is investing £8 million over 2025/26 to help ensure a local youth offer which addresses the needs of young people and supports government priorities.

The pilot will be delivered across 2025 to 2026, with all activity ending by 31 March 2026.

As a Pathfinder, there will be an emphasis on working with partners in the voluntary and community sector, and with schools and town/parish councils. Young people will help shape services through new Youth Insight Panels and an Area Youth Assembly/Forum, and a new Strategic Youth Partnership will oversee delivery.

Funding allocations for Pathfinder local authorities will be based on their action plans and local needs assessments, currently being undertaken. Confirmed funding allocations will be shared by the Government in due course.