Community Based Youth Work
Find local youth clubs, groups and activities across West Lothian.
Welcome to our Community Based Youth Work in West Lothian. From weekly youth clubs and creative projects to targeted groups, we offer a range of activities to help young people build skills, make connections and thrive.
Young people must live in West Lothian to access our provision. While groups are based in specific locations, they are not restricted by postcode, school or where young people live, so they can choose the group that works best for them.
Watch our short video showing how to register a young person for our community groups and clubs.
Register Here Using This Link (opens new window)
Who can register:
Parents or carers must complete registration for young people under 16. Young people aged 16 and over can register themselves.
Don't miss the + sign:
After creating your account and entering your details, you must click the + (plus sign) to create and submit the application. If this step is missed, your details will not save in our system. (Check the guidance video if you need help).
At the beginning of each academic year, we ask everyone using our youth work services to log in to Portal.scot, check that their information is up to date and complete a new application.
If you are 16 or over, you can update your own information and create a new application for yourself. For young people under 16, a parent or carer should log in, update their information and create a new application on their behalf.
We've created a short video to show you how to complete the process.
Log in Here (opens new window)
Stay up to date with the latest youth clubs, activities, events and opportunities happening in your local community.
Please feel free to contact our team if you have any questions or queries CLDYouthServices@westlothian.gov.uk (opens new window)
What is Community Based Youth Work?
Community based youth work provides safe and welcoming spaces where young people can meet others, build confidence, develop skills and take part in positive activities within their local community. Youth workers support young people through a range of clubs, groups and projects, helping them achieve their goals, have their voices heard and connect with others.
Who are the youth clubs and groups for?
We offer a range of clubs, groups and projects for young people across West Lothian. Opportunities are available from primary school age through to young adults, with each group having its own age range. Please refer to our list of groups and clubs.
Find a local group or club here (opens new window)
Are the groups and clubs on all year round ?
Our groups and clubs are term time and most follow the school holiday calendar. Our provisions usually start in September and run until the end of the academic school year.
Do I need to register before attending?
Yes. All young people must be registered before taking part in youth clubs and activities.
Register Here Using This Link (opens new window)
Who needs to complete the registration form?
Parents or carers must complete registration for young people under 16. Young people aged 16 and over can complete their own registration.
What if I need support to complete the registration form?
No worries. A member of staff will be happy to support you with registration. We encourage online registrations where possible, but you can also speak to a youth worker at your local group who can help.
Why do I need to create an account on Portal.scot and keep my information up to date?
To help us keep children and young people safe and ensure we can provide the right support, we need parents and carers to provide up-to-date information when registering for our groups and clubs.
This may include important information such as emergency contact details, medical or health information, allergies, additional support needs and other information that our youth workers may need to be aware of.
Keeping your information up to date means our staff have the most accurate information available and can contact you quickly if needed.
Your information is handled securely and used to support the safe and effective delivery of our youth work services.
Do youth clubs cost anything?
Most youth clubs have a small charge of £1.00 per session. This money goes directly back into activities for young people, helping to fund opportunities such as cooking, trips, arts and crafts and other activities.
What activities are available?
Activities vary across our clubs and groups and can include games, creative activities, outdoor learning, community projects, volunteering, awards and opportunities for young people to develop new skills.
Is targeted support available for young people?
Yes. We offer targeted support, groups and projects for young people who may benefit from additional or more specific support. This includes provision for young people who identify as neurodiverse, LGBTQ+ young people and LGBTQ+ allies, alongside other targeted support based on local needs. Check out our Targeted Youth Work Page for more information.
More Info - Targeted Groups and Clubs (opens new window)
Where do youth clubs take place?
Youth clubs and groups take place in local community venues, schools and partnership locations across West Lothian. Check our youth club directory to find your nearest group, including times, locations and age ranges.
Can my young person attend more than one group?
Yes. Young people can get involved in different opportunities where spaces are available. Please note that all groups are subject to capacity.
What happens if a group is full?
Some groups have maximum capacities. If a group is full, please contact the Youth Services team who can provide information on other opportunities available. CLDYouthServices@westlothian.gov.uk (opens new window)
How can I keep updated with youth clubs and activities?
Follow YouthworkWL on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates, activities, events and announcements. Your local youth work team will also keep you posted on any updates, changes or new provisions.
