Conwy Youth Service and Vibe Youth have been announced as the latest recipients of the Quality Mark for Youth Work (QMYW) in Wales.

Administered by the Education Workforce Council (EWC), the QMYW is a national award which supports and recognises improving standards in the provision and performance of organisations that deliver youth work services. In order to receive the accreditation, youth work organisations must self-assess against a set of quality standards and pass an external assessment.

To achieve the bronze QMYW, Vibe Youth demonstrated that they have appropriate leadership and governance, effective monitoring and evaluation processes, are safe, and act within a legal framework of policies. They also showed that they provide a welcoming and safe environment for young people who can access trusted and skilled staff and volunteers.

Jacob Henry, Chief Operating Officer and co-founder of Vibe Youth said “We are proud to have achieved our bronze Quality Mark.

“This award highlights the impact and importance of youth work in Wales. As a small, local organisation, we have shown we have the right structures and robust policies in place, that align with local and national frameworks.”

In achieving the gold QMYW, Conwy Youth Service demonstrated its strength of partnership working, use of management information, and creative use of resources in meeting the needs of young people. It also recognises and celebrates young people’s achievements, as well as the impact youth work and youth workers have made on their personal journeys.

Councillor Julie Fallon, Cabinet Member responsible for Conwy Youth Service, said, “I’m delighted that the dedicated staff in Conwy Youth Service have achieved this gold status. To achieve bronze, silver, and now this gold award is testament to the skill, experience, and professionalism of the team.

EWC’s Development Officer for the QMYW, Andrew Borsden said “I would like to extend my congratulations to both Conwy Youth Service and Vibe Youth on achieving the bronze and gold Quality Marks.

“It is an outstanding achievement, recognising the hard work and commitment you all make each day in support of young people across Wales. Well done to everybody involved.”

The EWC are currently recruiting QMYW assessors. You don’t need any specific qualifications to become an assessor, but it helps if you're passionate about celebrating youth work in Wales and have an interest in quality assurance.

For more information about becoming an assessor, and about the QMYW in general, visit the EWC’s website.