About

Established in 1989, The Regional Youth Work Unit—North East works across the North East of England to promote and support the development of youth work. The RYWU-NE is a focal point for both statutory and voluntary youth sector services to share information, highlight best practice, and co-ordinate the development of youth work and youth services. In 2003 we became a company limited by guarantee, and in 2004, a registered charity.

Over the years the RYWU-NE has developed considerably in terms of its structure and service delivery. We now have a staff team of eight development officers, three office staff and additional support from sessional workers and consultants.

Underlying Values

We believe that youth work is a process of informal education aimed at developing personal, social and political awareness of young people.

We believe that young people have a right to be heard, and that professionals have an obligation to respond positively to issues raised by young people.

We believe in the potential of everyone, and that opportunity needs to be created for individuals to take on new challenges and develop personally and professionally.

We believe that equality of opportunity is more than just a phrase. We endeavour to actively challenge discriminatory policies and behaviour, promote good practice and emphasise the positive aspect of equal opportunities.

We believe that the voluntary nature of the relationship between youth worker and young person is at the heart of youth work practice.