Essential practitioner skills for detached youth work with marginalised young people

There is a dearth of academic research into detached youth work (DYW) skills, and there needs to be a focus on understanding DYW to make practice rigorous and effective. This paper analyses the characteristics of the detached youth worker and examines the practice skills required when engaging with marginalised young people. The research was conducted across two DYW teams in England, including participant observations, semi-structured interviews and an online survey. This mixed‑methods approach enabled a rich exploration of both practitioner perspectives and practice behaviours. The key characteristics of knowledge, skills and attitudes require focusing on for professional confidence and expertise in practice. Findings particularly evidence the importance of role modelling and shared learning between practitioners. These findings could contribute to the development of job descriptions and role requirement to ensure effective recruitment in youth work which continues to face challenges due to lacking professionalisation and respect of the practice they achieve when working with young people. These findings inform other services and practitioners in responding and engaging with marginalised young people and support staff development and future training. The skills and insights gained from this research can be adapted and applied globally, supporting youth work and wider practice in different cultural and social contexts.