A UK-wide research project exploring youth work and ministry in community contexts
Across the UK, thousands of practitioners are engaging in ministry with young people in schools, community spaces, sports clubs, detached settings, chaplaincies, arts projects, neighbourhoods, and many other places beyond traditional church gatherings.
Yet we know surprisingly little about the breadth of this work.
Beyond the Church is a national research project seeking to better understand what is happening, why it is happening, and what practitioners need to help this work thrive.
Through this survey, we hope to build a snapshot of current practice by exploring:
- the kinds of work taking place beyond the church
- the motivations and theological convictions that shape it
- how practitioners approach their work
- the challenges they face
- the support and resources they need
The findings will inform future strategy, training, and resources, while contributing to wider conversations about mission, youth work, and ministry in community settings.
Who should take part?
We’d love to hear from anyone involved in Christian youth work or youth ministry in the UK, including:
- paid and volunteer youth workers
- youth ministers
- chaplains
- church leaders with responsibility for young people
- practitioners working in para-church organisations or community projects
We recognise that people describe their work in different ways. Whether you identify primarily as a youth worker, youth minister, chaplain, or something else, if your role involves engaging with young people, we’d value your perspective.
The survey takes approximately 14-18 minutes to complete.
Thank you for contributing to this research and helping build a clearer picture of youth work and ministry beyond the church.