Funding for new Youth Hub in Central Bedfordshire

PRESS RELEASE FROM ALISTAIR STRATHERN MP

TUESDAY 16^th JUNE 2026

Alistair Strathern, MP for the Hitchin constituency, is celebrating securing funding for a new Youth Hub in Central Bedfordshire, delivering a major boost to opportunities for young people across the area.

The funding, confirmed as part of the Government’s latest rollout of Youth Hubs, will see Central Bedfordshire Council receive support to work in partnership with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to establish a new, accessible space for young people. As well as a space to be, the hub will offer free, local access to employment support, skills training, and career advice as well as wider wellbeing support.

The announcement follows sustained advocacy from Strathern, who has been lobbying ministers to ensure local constituents benefit from the expansion of the Youth Hub programme.

The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Pat McFadden MP, wrote to Mr Strathern this week to thank him for his advocacy and confirm Central Bedfordshire had secured funding to deliver one of the Government’s new Youth Hubs over the course of the Parliament. Work is now set to begin on identifying a suitable venue that is accessible and free to use. While the precise location is yet to be determined, the hub will serve young people across the Central Bedfordshire area.

Youth Hubs bring together a range of services under one roof, supporting young people who are seeking work, training, or further education. They provide tailored guidance, employer engagement, and access to opportunities in a supportive environment.

Further engagement with local stakeholders will take place in the coming months, including opportunities for community input on potential locations for the hub. Funding and delivery is expected in 2028/29.

Alistair Strathern MP said:“One of my big priorities as our MP is boosting opportunities for young people across our towns and villages.

“I’m delighted that after months of championing action in Westminster, we’ve been able to secure this investment for Central Bedfordshire. I’ve been pressing for greater support for young people in our area, and this Youth Hub will make a real difference: helping young people access training, develop skills, and take their first steps into work.

“This is about ensuring that no young person is left behind.

“I look forward to working with the council and local partners to identify the best possible location to serve our community and make this hub a success.”

Notes to editors:

Central Bedfordshire Council has been awarded funding as part of the Government’s Year 2 and 3 Youth Hub rollout.

You can see attached an image of Strathern with Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson at an Amazing Apprenticeships event in Hitchin.