This study explores the intersection of youth work and creativity, two distinct yet interrelated domains of policy, practice, and research. It examines whether the distinctive characteristics of youth work create an environment particularly conducive to fostering creativity among young people. The study argues that creativity is not merely an outcome of youth work but a fundamental feature, right, and necessity, with youth work providing the essential conditions for creative development, from foundational skills to domain-specific expertise. The primary research question guiding this study is: In what ways do the distinctive features of youth work relate to its potential to foster creativity in young people? To address this, the study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining two national online surveys—one targeting youth workers and the other focused on young people—along with eleven ‘story circles’ to facilitate in-depth discussions. A total of 242 participants from 27 counties provided valuable qualitative and quantitative insights. This research represents the first national study to examine the role of youth work in fostering creativity among young people. It highlights the inherent creativity within youth work, demonstrating through both theoretical insights and empirical findings how youth work supports major dimensions of creativity when practiced by skilled and experienced youth workers. Every key feature of youth work has the potential to nurture creative expression, innovation, and social transformation. Despite its significant contributions to creativity, youth work remains underrepresented in creativity-related policies, revealing a critical gap in recognition and investment. The study calls for a stronger integration of youth work within policy frameworks to ensure a more equitable distribution of creative opportunities, particularly beyond formal education settings. Strengthening the alignment between youth work and creativity policies can enhance youth work’s role as a key driver of creative development and social change.