Ways We Work

The Targeted Youth Support Service (TYSS) works with young people who may be facing problems outside of the home. 

We help by enabling children and young people to increase aspirations and develop resilience. Our services include: 

• Working with young people in small groups, focusing on particular difficulties
• Working with young people on a one-to-one basis
• Working with communities in addressing wider issues relating to young people

We also work with schools and other services to address problems like Anti-Social Behaviour, lack of local youth provision, responding to violence in a community or other sudden trauma. 

Take action: You can find out more about how to request service for a young person. 

Detached youth work

Detached youth work is a vital part of TYSS provision. It involves engaging with young people in their own environments such as parks, streets, and community spaces—rather than expecting them to come to us. This approach helps us:

• Build trust and meaningful relationships
• Gain insight into young people’s experiences and needs
• Signpost young people to support services and fun activities

We also provide early intervention in areas identified as hotspots for anti-social behaviour or safeguarding concerns. 

Our team regularly delivers detached youth work across Oxfordshire, including Barton, Witney, Blackbird Leys, Cowley, Abingdon, Thame and Carterton.

‘We’re here to listen, support, and help young people make positive choices’

About youth work

Youth work is an approach of engaging with a young person which is built on the relationship between the worker and the young person. The young person is an equal partner in the work their engagement is voluntary. 

Through this partnership a worker helps the young person to build life skills, develop healthy relationships and make decisions that are right for them. 

If you are not sure how to request service, ask your manager or contact your LCSS worker or school.

Got any questions? If you have any questions you can contact the Targeted Youth Support Service directly via email tyss@oxfordshire.gov.uk