Building Brighter Futures: Safe places, trusted support, and opportunities to thrive
For this year's Youth Work Week (3–9 November), we were proud to celebrate the transformative power of youth work and the role ASOS is playing in building brighter futures.
This year’s theme, “Building Brighter Futures: Safe places, trusted support, and opportunities to thrive,” perfectly reflects what youth work delivers across the OnSide Youth Zone network. It’s about creating spaces where young people feel safe, supported, and inspired to grow and it’s never been more essential.
In October, ASOSers brought the energy and expertise of our teams to Unitas, a state-of-the-art youth centre and part of the OnSide network, for a vibrant ASOS takeover.
During the event, teams from Product and Tech delivered two interactive workshops designed to spark curiosity and ambition:
- In the Product workshop, Venture Buyers, Merchandisers, and Garment Technologists guided young people through the process of creating trend packs using magazine cut-outs and mood board inspiration, giving a hands-on look at how ideas become products.
- In the Security workshop, our team ran a scenario-based session where participants investigated a case of potential fraud, learning how we protect our customers and keep our platform safe.
Led by ASOSers, the takeover at Unitas was an amazing example of what happens when our people bring their skills and passion into the community. There was positive feedback from the team and youth workers about the creativity, energy, and meaningful conversations that filled the evening. It was a powerful reminder of the impact we can have when our teams show up, share their knowledge, and help open doors.
But the reality is, since 2010, local authority spending on youth services in England has fallen by over 70% which led to the closure of hundreds of youth clubs and a significant reduction in youth work roles. At a time when young people are navigating increasingly complex challenges, the need for trusted adults and inclusive spaces is now greater than ever. That’s why the ASOS Foundation has announced a major new five-year partnership with OnSide, supporting youth workers and expanding career pathways across the network. Through this partnership, 35,000 young people will benefit from vital youth work support that empowers them to overcome challenges, unlock their potential, and thrive.
And we’re continuing to step up. We’re supporting a pioneering youth worker career pathway programme, helping Junior Youth Workers progress from Level 2 qualifications to degree-level, all while continuing their paid roles in Youth Zones.
Youth Work Week is a moment to reflect, but also to act. We want to thank every ASOSer who’s contributed so far and encourage anyone who’s inspired to get involved. Your time, your story, your support can make a lasting difference!