Federation for Detached Youth Work
The Federation for Detached Youth Work (FDYW) is a UK-based nonprofit organisation dedicated to advancing the practice and understanding of detached youth work. Registered as charity number 1052405, it operates as an umbrella body providing advocacy, research, and support to professionals in the sector[2][4].

Mission and activities
FDYW aims to improve the quality of detached youth work across the UK by promoting best practices, facilitating knowledge exchange, and influencing policy developments. Its core activities include providing training, resources, and networking opportunities for practitioners[3]. The organisation collaborates with grassroots projects, such as Poplar HARCA's Spotlight Youth initiative, to address challenges like those exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic[1].

Operational focus
As a registered charity, FDYW functions as a resource body that sponsors research, offers advisory services, and advocates for the professionalisation of detached youth work. It emphasizes participatory approaches, ensuring practitioners directly contribute to shaping its priorities[5][2]. The federation also works to raise public awareness of the role of detached youth workers in engaging vulnerable or hard-to-reach young people[3][5].

Historical context
While specific founding dates are not detailed in available records, FDYW's establishment is recognised as a pivotal effort to standardise and elevate detached youth work practices nationally. Its work continues to address evolving societal needs, including digital outreach and community-based interventions[1][5].

[1] https://www.fdyw.org.uk [2] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/1052405/charity-overview [3] https://www.fdyw.org.uk/about [4] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/1052405/what-who-how-where [5] https://nya.org.uk/timeline/federation-for-detached-youth-work-established/