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Young Somerset is a leading youth work charity based in Somerset, England, dedicated to supporting young people and helping them achieve their full potential. Established in 1997 as the Somerset Rural Youth Project, the organisation has grown into the largest youth and community support charity in the county. Its mission is to “put young people first” by providing tailored support that helps them overcome challenges and develop the skills, confidence, and resilience needed to thrive.

The charity works with children and young people across Somerset through a wide range of programs that focus on education, mental health, employment, and community engagement. Over time, Young Somerset has adapted its services to meet the changing needs of young people. In particular, since the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the organisation has shifted towards more targeted support, ensuring that young people facing significant barriers receive specialised help.

One of Young Somerset’s key areas of work is alternative education provision. This program supports young people who struggle within mainstream education systems. Instead of traditional classroom learning, the organisation uses practical and experiential methods, often described as “learning by doing,” to help young people gain recognised qualifications and re-engage with education. These programs aim to build confidence, improve behaviour and attendance, and give young people a pathway back into education, training, or employment.

Another major focus of the charity is mental health support. Young Somerset is the largest NHS-commissioned provider of low-intensity cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) for young people in the South West of England. Through partnerships with schools, healthcare providers, and community organisations, the charity offers mental health services that help young people manage issues such as anxiety, stress, and low mood. These services are designed to intervene early, providing support before problems become more serious and ensuring that young people have access to help in familiar community and educational settings.

Young Somerset also focuses on employment and skills development. Through its enterprise initiatives, including the Bold & Brave café and shop, young people aged 14–25 can take part in supported internships, work placements, and practical training. These opportunities allow them to develop workplace skills such as teamwork, communication, and responsibility. By gaining real-world experience, participants can improve their employability and build confidence in their abilities. For some young people who face barriers to work, these initiatives can be transformative, providing a stepping stone towards sustainable employment and independence.

In addition to education, mental health, and employment programs, Young Somerset employs youth workers who operate across communities and healthcare settings. These professionals work closely with statutory partners such as schools, local authorities, and health services to provide guidance, mentoring, and early intervention support. The organisation emphasises youth-led relationships that are respectful, honest, and built on trust, ensuring that young people’s voices are heard and that services are shaped around their needs.

The impact of Young Somerset’s work is significant across the county. In the last three years alone, the charity has directly supported more than 6,000 children and young people and engaged with over 8,000 young people, parents, and professionals through events and activities. It has also created opportunities for work placements and apprenticeships, helping young people gain valuable experience for the future. These figures demonstrate the organisation’s wide reach and the positive difference it makes within local communities.

Overall, Young Somerset plays a crucial role in supporting young people across Somerset. By providing targeted education, mental health support, and employment opportunities, the charity empowers young people to overcome challenges and build brighter futures. Its work not only benefits individuals but also strengthens communities by enabling young people to become active, confident members of society.