News
Report Identifies Benefits of Youth Participation and Engagement
21 October 2010
‘Valuing Young Voices – Strengthening Democracy’ was commissioned by the Local Government Group and National Youth Agency and investigates the contribution made by young people’s participation in society.
The paper demonstrates how youth engagement can lead to increased accountability and legitimacy amongst decision makers, and improved services for young people, concluding that youth engagement is instrumental in delivering outcomes that communities and councils seek.
Fiona Blacke, National Youth Agency chief executive, said: “The release of this is timely as we celebrate Local Democracy Week.
“Councils play a crucial role in ensuring that young people have a voice in society and that their views are listened to and acted upon.
“There are many benefits to youth engagement: building self-confidence and skills amongst young people, and growing social capital in communities. Young people’s participation in society brings people together and supports the development of services that have a long term impact on young people and their local area.”
To download a copy of the report visit: www.nya.org.uk/policy
ENDS