Phab, the national charity creating opportunities for disabled and non-disabled people to enjoy activities together, was praised in the House of Commons during Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs) for its inclusive youth clubs across the UK.
Southport MP Patrick Hurley highlighted Phab’s “remarkable work bringing young people together in genuinely inclusive clubs.”
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer responded by commending Phab’s approach, saying it represents “the best of youth work, inclusion, friendship and opportunity for all.”
He also announced the launch of a new Youth Strategy, focused on expanding access and participation for every young person.
Phab’s Co Chief Executives Mik Scarlet and Dawn Vickers welcomed the recognition and expressed enthusiasm for helping shape the new national agenda for youth provision.
“We’re delighted that Phab’s inclusive youth clubs have been recognised at the highest level of Government,” said Mik.
“Every young person, disabled or not, deserves the chance to belong, to take part, and to thrive. We would love to work with Government and sector partners to ensure inclusion is embedded at the heart of the new Youth Strategy.”
With over 100 local Phab Clubs across England and Wales, Phab empowers young people to develop confidence, friendships, and leadership skills through inclusive social activities, youth sessions, and residential experiences. Many Phab Clubs are youth-led, co-designed with young people, and run in partnership with local schools, councils, and youth organisations.
Southport MP Patrick Hurley said:
“Phab is a fantastic organisation – a proper inclusive social club that doesn’t judge, just gets people together to live and have a good time together. The Southport branch is going from strength to strength – they meet every other Friday at Dunes Leisure Centre in town. If you’d like to get involved in helping out or just attend and have a great time, email them at southportphab@gmail.com and tell them I sent you.”
As the Government develops its new Youth Strategy, Phab is calling for inclusion by design, ensuring every person, regardless of disability or background, can access local opportunities and feel they belong.
Dawn said: “Our clubs prove inclusion works, it brings communities together, breaks down barriers, and changes lives.
“We’re ready to share what we’ve learned and help make every youth setting more inclusive.”
- For more information,visit: www.phab.org.uk
Do you have a story for Stand Up For Southport? Do you need advertising, PR or media support? Please message Andrew Brown or email: mediaandrewbrown@gmail.com
