Martin Whitfield MSP has visited Cockenzie-based social enterprise, Heavy Sound, to discuss his proposed Youth Work Member’s Bill, which would ensure every council provides youth work services. 

The Youth Work Scotland Bill seeks to establish a robust legal framework ensuring that every young person, regardless of their background or circumstances, has access to consistent and high-quality youth work opportunities.

Mr Whitfield spoke to a group of young people who use Heavy Sound’s services about the Bill and the impact he hopes it could have on youth work services and the lives of the young people who benefit from them.

Commenting, Martin Whitfield MSP said: 

“Heavy Sound is just the kind of group I hope would benefit from my proposed Bill and it was great to visit and chat to some of the young people it works with about it. 

“Across Scotland, access to youth work can be a lifeline – providing vital support, tackling isolation, and helping young people develop the skills and confidence they need for the future.

“This transformative Bill would ensure that no matter where a young person grows up, they have access to high-quality youth work. For East Lothian, that means stronger communities, more opportunities, and a future where every young person can thrive.

“By creating a legal obligation for local authorities to provide universal and targeted youth work services, this Bill would ensure no young person is excluded from the opportunities they need to succeed.”