UK Unveils £500M Youth Plan to Combat Online Isolation and Build Youth Centres
December 10, 2025
The article includes quotes from multiple stakeholders and editors’ notes linking to the full strategy and related research.
Culture Secretary says there are no current plans for an Australia-style under-16 social media ban in the UK due to enforceability concerns, though future action could be reconsidered if the policy gains broad youth support.
Conservatives argue the plan hinges on a stronger economy and clearer job prospects, while Labour signals want broader economic reforms.
Critics also question whether the plan addresses deeper structural issues, stressing that improved economic conditions and employment are necessary for real progress.
Australia fines platforms for under-16 accounts; UK officials similarly weigh enforceability and potential changes if popular with young people.
Officials stress that engaging youth politically requires empowering them to shape their own lives, not lecturing them to vote.
YMCA and Local Government Association welcomed the plan but urged long-term investment and workforce backing for effective delivery.
Opposition, including Lib Dems, criticizes the plan as insufficient and calls for reforms in SEND services and broader youth opportunities.
The UK government unveiled a 10-year national youth plan to tackle online isolation, backed by a 500 million package to revive youth services, refurbish or build 250 youth centres, and connect more children with trusted adults beyond the home.
Eight early adopter Young Futures Hubs are planned to be up and running by March 2026 in Birmingham, Leeds, Manchester, County Durham, Nottingham, Bristol, Tower Hamlets, and Brighton and Hove, with a broader rollout to follow.
Prime Minister, framing youth outcomes as a moral priority, called it our generation's greatest responsibility and warned of a potential lost decade for young people.
Reaction from Labour and Conservative voices is mixed, with critics saying economic conditions and policy scope will shape real opportunities for youths.
Summary based on 14 sources
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Sources

The Guardian • Dec 9, 2025
Young people have faced ‘violent indifference’ for decades, Lisa Nandy says
BBC News • Dec 10, 2025
Hundreds of youth centres planned to reach 'isolated' generation
The Independent • Dec 10, 2025
UK government ‘would consider’ Australia-style social media ban for under-16s