Sian Berry AM has criticised the Mayor’s refusal to commit to long-term funding for youth services, making clear that young people’s lives and wellbeing are on the line. This followed the Mayor recognising Sian for her consistent advocacy, which has secured support for 350,000 young people across London.
Quizzing Sadiq Khan at today’s Mayor’s Question Time, Sian pushed the Mayor to address the insufficient funding for young people in his latest financial plans, who admitted that Sian was “spot on in relation to short term spending on this is not good enough”.
Despite this, the Mayor refused to commit to long-term investment, instead opting to kick the can down the road to the next national government to improve financial support for young people. This was slammed by Sian, who described the decision to leave a hole and expect the next government to fill it as a significant risk. She stressed that the Mayor should proactively work with her to protect their joint legacy of fighting for young people, at a time when vulnerability requires support rather than neglect.
Speaking following the session, Assembly Member Sian Berry says:
“Rather than stepping up to deliver long-term investment himself, the Mayor is asking young people to cross their fingers and hope that the next government will give them essential support. That is just not good enough.
“Our city relies on brilliant youth workers, groups and centres to support, nurture and care for our young people. In turn, those services rely on our funding. I’m therefore really worried to see that funding not rise to the level it needs to be.
“The Mayor has said he cannot commit to long-term funding, and that young people should bet on a Labour government instead. But the national Labour Party has only offered is “tough love” for young people, and a refusal to rule out public service cuts. That’s an offer young people cannot afford to rely on.”
Throughout her time on the Assembly, Siân Berry AM has consistently pushed for more funding for young people, making sure that every available penny is being spent, and for as many young people as possible to benefit. Previously, Sian has compiled evidence about the impact of youth service cuts, proposed budget amendments, and convinced the Mayor of London to set up the Young Londoners Fund.