EA maintains youth service funding

The uncertainty reflected the wider financial contest facing EA and the public sector in general - no confirmed budget for the year and the likelihood of another year of significant underfunding.

Despite these pressures, EA has been able to provide funding assurance to the youth sector.

EA's Board has reviewed the budget for youth services for the 2026-27 period and agreed to maintain funding at the same level as in 2025-26

Maintaining the budget has allowed EA through efficiencies and prioritisation of front-line delivery to provide an additional £1.2 million to support the community and voluntary sector in relation to youth services.

In the year ahead, the Board will review and determine the future direction of youth service funding and establish a governance framework to ensure its long-term protection.