Lack of investment in youth services is failing future generations | Kathryn Morley

Councils recognise the importance of services for young people, but have had to cut funding; partnerships offer a new model

It amazes me how many adults attribute part of their success to youth centres, sports clubs and arts programmes. The opportunity to forge diverse friendships, have somewhere to go and something to do in their spare time helped them become rounded, engaged and motivated.

Now council-funded universal youth services are severely diminished. It’s estimated that an almost £400m reduction in council funding has led to more than 600 youth centres being closed since 2010. It would be failing future generations to shrug our shoulders and chalk this up as an inevitable consequence of new social and economic priorities. So what can be done?

Related: Children in care shouldn't lose vital support as they turn 18 | Emma Bennett

Related: How rap therapy workshops help foster children tell stories

Continue reading...

from Children | The Guardian http://ift.tt/2jSH9uj