Milton Keynes City Council has recognised sixty local organisations with its Youth Safe Practice Mark for meeting high standards of youth safety. The achievement highlights growing commitment across the city to creating safe, supportive spaces for children and young people.
The Youth Safe Practice Mark, which launched in 2023, is only awarded to groups, clubs and organisations that meet a set of standards designed to keep young people safe. This includes having robust policies, trained staff and volunteers, and clear procedures that help young people feel confident, respected and protected.
Organisations with the mark gain access to free training and can apply for additional funding, which has already helped local groups buy extra equipment, offer free or discounted activities, and reduce costs such as membership and sportswear so more young people can take part.
Sports clubs, arts groups, faith organisations and community projects are among those that have achieved the mark so far, with many more working towards it.
Groups interested in the Safe Practice Mark fill out an online application which is reviewed by a specialist panel. Application is free but successful clubs must re-apply annually to continue using the mark.
“It’s fantastic that so many organisations have achieved or are working towards our Safe Practice Mark. Every organisation that takes part is demonstrating its commitment to keeping children and young people safe, while giving families greater confidence in the activities and services they use. We hope many more will follow their example.”
The City Council continues to offer guidance and training to help local organisations meet the criteria and maintain high standards of practice. If you run a club or provide activities for young people and want to find out more, please email YPSafePractice@milton-keynes.gov.uk or visit www.milton-keynes.gov.uk/YPSafePractice