This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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First Youthlink annual conference
02/11/2002
Give young people a voice and they will respond positively, the first annual conference of YouthLink Scotland was told today in Glasgow.
Education and Young People Minister Cathy Jamieson continued:
"Getting young people involved in voluntary work and in decisions that affect their lives helps improve their interpersonal and educational skills as well as giving them greater responsibility.
"When young people are given responsibility, we normally get a positive response. Youth work plays a crucial role in community learning and development and ensures young people have opportunities to be active citizens.
"We are aiming to build a youth network that involves young people - whether addressing their problems, providing support or recreation and fun.
"And while these measures can play a significant role in diverting young people away from crime, we must remember that youth work does much more, giving young people the confidence and skills to make the most of their lives."
Ms Jamieson added:
"When we talk about working together it is vital that young people are also included in the process. Young people have an enormous contribution to make to our communities both locally and globally.
"YouthLink recognise that, I recognise that, and I am delighted to offer the Scottish Executive's support for its aims."
YouthLink became the national organisation for Scottish youth organisations in April although its roots date back to 1942. It supports and promotes young people by working with the voluntary, statutory and private sectors to:
- Build the capacity of youth work and youth service organisations
- Develop youth policy and youth provision
- Facilitate networks of learning and innovation
- Promote the value of youth work as a method of supporting young people's development
Contact: Rona Dunbar: 0131 244 2670