CYP responds to Youth Matters green paper

Clubs for Young People welcomes the Government's green paper Youth Matters This is the next step in the commitment to secure a ‘step change’ in the provision of support for young people across England.

CYP acknowledges the emphasis that Youth Matters places on collaboration and welcomes the Government’s call for a more coherent system of support for young people. It is critical that organisations work in partnership to meet the needs of young people. CYP also welcomes the intention for a more structured and deliberate inclusion of young people ‘at risk of poverty or crime’, but would like to know more of details of how this will work in practice.

CYP supports the Government’s commitment that young people should be engaged in the process of developing services. Increasing their participation, influence and spending power is a promising solution. We note too the focus on the contribution parents can make.

CYP intends to consult widely throughout its network of members and young people to ensure its response to the green paper is representative.

Simon Antrobus, Chief Executive of CYP, said: ‘Youth Matters represents a step forward in the development of a range of choices and services for young people. Its overall aims are welcomed. However if we are to succeed with this vision then we must commit to truly engaging young people, recognising that a rich diversity of opportunities is vital, that the voluntary and community sector are at the heart of this and that there are adequate resources to invest’.

CYP believes the role that the voluntary sector can play is significant. This is on both a local and national level. We look to the Government to celebrate and champion its contribution. We would, however, want to know more about the Government’s intentions here.

Simon Antrobus added: ‘CYP is already encouraging and supporting young people to make positive contributions in their local communities and involving them in a range of opportunities throughout the UK. We are pleased that this is represented in the green paper.’