Youth club cuts came under renewed scrutiny as the father of murdered teenager Kiyan Prince urged ministers to act. The campaigner said too many young people now lack safe spaces, guidance and support in their communities.
Dr Mark Prince, father of Kiyan Prince, has criticised the closure of youth centres across Britain. He said the loss of community services leaves many teenagers without vital support. As a result, he called the situation a national scandal.
His comments came on the 20th anniversary of Kiyan’s death in north-west London. A teenager stabbed Kiyan outside his school in Edgware in May 2006. He had stepped in to break up what began as a mock fight.
At the time, Kiyan played for Queens Park Rangers F.C.’s youth academy. Therefore, many saw him as a talented footballer with a promising future. His death shocked the local community and later inspired national campaigns against knife crime.
Since then, Dr Prince has founded the Kiyan Prince Foundation. The charity supports young people and works to prevent violence. Moreover, it runs programmes focused on confidence, education and mentoring.
Speaking at the launch of a new initiative called The Champions’ Club, Dr Prince said young people often feel ignored. He argued that many teenagers feel society labels them as a problem. However, he said people should see them as a generation with huge potential.
He also stressed that youth services can change lives. According to him, clubs give teenagers purpose, confidence and positive role models. Because of that, he said youth club cuts have had a damaging impact on communities.
The charity wants youth workers to receive the same recognition as teachers. In addition, it wants more public investment in community projects. Dr Prince said his organisation hopes to open a dedicated centre named after his son.
Meanwhile, the UK government said it remains committed to tackling knife crime. Officials said recent measures helped reduce offences involving knives. They also pointed to funding for youth services in deprived areas.
Last year, Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced £30.5 million for youth facilities. Nevertheless, campaigners say the government still needs to provide much more funding.
For Dr Prince, the issue remains deeply personal. He said youth club cuts continue to remove lifelines from vulnerable children. He added that communities need action now, not more promises.
As the anniversary passes, his message remains clear. youth club cuts must be reversed to protect future generations. For many families, youth club cuts now represent a wider failure to support Britain’s young people.
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