Wealden MP welcomes more say for younger people

Wealden MP, Charles Hendry, has welcomed the announcement of the Government’s new vision for young people and youth services, Positive for Youth.

The strategy aims to ensure that every local authority involves young people in decision-making.

It will see local authorities building stronger links with voluntary organisations and local businesses to develop opportunities for young people in local communities.

Companies such as O2, Starbucks and the Co-operative are some of the names that are leading the way in innovative projects that are inspiring young people.

A statement from Mr Hendry said the Government wanted to create a society that was more Positive for Youth, and which took steps to ensure young people had a say on government policies.

A new national scrutiny group and youth select committee will monitor and advise on these policies.

Local authorities are being encouraged to introduce programmes such as youth mayors or youth inspectors to give young people a voice locally.

Mr Hendry’s statement added: “Positive for Youth is a further step in the direction of creating a society that supports young people. It follows last year’s establishment of National Citizen Service which now offers 30,000 places to young people, and by 2014 will offer 90,000 places – a programme set up by the Government for 16 year old to improve their skills, and community awareness.”