Detached Youth Work is a method of working with young people outside of traditional youth services such as youth clubs. It involves workers leaving our buildings and working with young people in a range of settings which are not managed or controlled by the worker. Detached Youth Work targets young people who are not attached to other youth services or who are isolated and disadvantaged within their community.

The work is broadly aimed at making positive relationships with young people, and toward providing individual and collective support and helping young people to access information and resources.

Workers undertake detached work within West Edinburgh at various days and times throughout the week to ensure they have contact with as many young people as possible. The Youth Agency works closely with Lothian and Borders Police and the City of Edinburgh Council Children & Families department to ensure information is shared and there is no duplication of work.