"Youth Matters set out a vision to transform the lives of every young person through a radical reshaping of provision." (Beverly Hughes MP, Minister of State for Children, Young People and Families)
The consultation received the largest ever response with over 19,000 young people giving their views.
Things to do and Places to go
The Youth Matters Green Paper stated that the participation of young people in a range of positive activities including sports, volunteering and constructive activities has a positive impact in later life. Our ambition is to make sure all young people have access to positive activities.
Research into positive activity participation found that the lack of information is a key reason why young people don't participate. Youth Matters suggested addressing this by requiring each children’s trust to publicise things to do and places to go in their area.
See the bulletin on positive activities at www.everychildmatters.gov.uk/thingstodo
- Statutory duty and national standards
A new duty has been placed upon local authorities to ensure young people have access to a range of positive activities.
- The Youth Opportunities Fund and Youth Capital Fund
£115 million for two years from April 2006 until March 2008 are to support young people have a central role in deciding positive activities, as decision makers and grant givers.
- Youth Opportunities Card
10 pilots have been agreed across the country to test out the card over the next two years. In the North East the pilots will be in Sunderland and Durham. The aim of the pilots is to find out whether giving young people spending power increases their engagement in positive activities and improves providers responsiveness to their needs and views.
Volunteering
Youth Matters set out a vision for young people’s volunteering and active citizenship and the benefits they can bring. The Russell Commission Implementation Body will be taking this forward.
Information, advice and guidance
Young people will have access to a variety of information channels, offering advice and guidance through an integrated service.
Targeted Support
In the North East there are two targeted youth support pathfinders one in South Tyneside and one in Gateshead.
Short intensive reviews of the issues children’s trusts are facing in delivering targeted support are being carried out.
Action will be taken in the Respect Action Plan and the Social Exclusion Unit report Transitions to support vulnerable teenagers.
