Youth Services Social Value Report
Sevenoaks Town Council has published its Social Value Report for Youth Services (2024–2026), outlining the impact of its investment in youth provision and the benefits delivered to young people and the wider community.
The Council invests £107,600 each year in youth services, supporting a range of activities including open-access youth provision, community programmes, youth leadership opportunities and free public recreation facilities.
A key part of this work is the House in the Basement (HitB) Youth Cafe, which provides a safe, youth-led space for young people aged 11–17. Over the last year (January 2025-December 2025), the centre recorded 2,274 attendances across 198 sessions, with 221 young people attending for the first time. The service also provides an inclusive offer, with 460 attendances from young people with Special Educational Needs (SEN).
The Council also supports wider youth engagement across the town. The Sevenoaks Youth Council gives young people the opportunity to participate in local decision-making and develop leadership skills, with 80 Youth Councillors involved. Partnership programmes, including rail safety education initiatives, have also reached 5,758 young people through schools and community engagement.
In addition, the Council funds grants, events and facilities that encourage creativity, physical activity and community participation. These include skateboarding sessions, theatre and arts programmes, Play Days and access to play areas, the skatepark and MUGA facilities.
The report highlights how youth services contribute to community wellbeing, inclusion and opportunities for young people, while identifying future priorities such as expanding outreach youth work and strengthening support pathways for young people.
