Youthbuilding projects "Empower socially excluded young people to undertake vocational training in the course of constructing better communities, environments, enterprises, homes and facilities for those in need (including themselves) and thereby enhance their employment opportunities and become involved citizens." That’s the mantra, meaning that projects are innovative, successful and for disadvantaged young people. They address issues within regeneration programmes, differing from traditional training and employment programmes by providing focused support and incentives, ensuring that traditionally excluded groups gain access to vocational training that is recognised and provides the skills needed by industry.

The Forum runs annually awards in conjunction with the National House Builders Council. The Forum has links with other Youthbuilding networks in Europe and America where similar projects bridge between social inclusion and the needs of communities and industry.

Since 1990, around 140 Youthbuilding projects have assisted nearly 4000 young people in the UK who believed in solving their own employment and housing needs. The greatest achievements remain with the young people themselves. All undertook vocational training, gained skills, qualifications and work experience. Many secured homes, which they assisted in building themselves. New initiatives have developed from the insights gained on these earlier experiences that will further assist the growth of Youthbuilding in the UK.