The current proposal replaces the open access holistic approach with an Education, Employment and Training focused service for 16-19 year olds based at West Offices. The change the council argues that 'For those receiving the service there is likely to be no impact' …We disagree strongly.

Castlegate and its predecessor, The Youth Enquiry Service, have worked with thousands and thousands of young people since the 1980's. The service provides a holistic source of advice, counselling, and support. Crucially, this is often for people unable or unwilling to go into spaces more closely identified with 'government', 'council', 'adult' advice centres, 'childrens services' or schools. With out it where will the young person to go; who needs help finding an apprenticeship; or is being sexually exploited; or is being abused,or thrown out of their home; or fleeing an arranged marriage; or being exploited at work, or in debt to a loan shark or frightened because they are hearing voices and feeling suicidal? Sign this petition of you would like the City of York Council to review the decision, and consult fully with young people and partners about how a holistic service that supports vulnerable  young people 16-25 as they make the transition to adulthood can be maintained, rather than scrapped.