Detached and Outreach

Not every young person will walk through our doors, so our detached and outreach team goes to them. Detached youth work means meeting young people in the places they already spend their time, on the streets, estates, parks and public spaces of Wandsworth, and building relationships on their terms. Our youth workers always work in pairs, are fully DBS checked and follow clear safeguarding procedures, including planning and sharing their route before every session. Alongside our home patch in Falconbrook, we are extending our reach north into Battersea Park ward so we can support more young people across the area. Many of the young people we meet are not engaged with other services, and some may be at risk of exploitation, violence or getting drawn into harm. A friendly conversation on the street can be the start of a trusted relationship. From there we can listen, offer advice and support, spot concerns early and help young people find positive things to do, including our youth club, football and mentoring. Detached work also helps us understand what is really happening in our community, so we can respond to young people's needs as they change. Our team is out on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays from 4.30 to 7pm. No registration or referral is needed to talk to us on the street.