A Voice For Young People - Youth Strategy 2008-2012

Far reaching work to look at the issues and concerns of young people in the district and solutions for the future was given a major boost following a special workshop with partners in the community.

More than 50 delegates from a wide range of organisations from the voluntary, community and statutory sector were invited to The Ark on Wednesday (12 December). The workshop reviewed the success of the 2005-2008 Youth Strategy and set the format for the next five years, based on the issues and concerns of young people.

The meeting, organised by Dover District Council and Kent County Council, looked at priorities identified by young people and gathered feedback from representatives. This reflected outcomes set out by the Government as part of the Every Child Matters framework. Priority issues identified by young people included drugs, bullying, litter and transport. Key messages from organisations included the need for all agencies to work together, to share information and to understand young people.

All feedback is now being taken fully into account in the preparation of the Youth Strategy 2008-2012. This will include an action plan for the future. The Strategy will be delivered by a range of partners in the community, led by Dover District Council and Kent County Council. The draft Strategy will be out for consultation with stakeholders in the new year. A Youth Strategy sub-group has been set up, and the Dover District Youth Forum will help to progress this important work.

Cllr Mrs Julie Rook, DDC Cabinet Member for Citizenship, said: "It is vital we make sure we allow young people's voices to be heard to help shape the services we deliver in our communities. The Youth Strategy has been a great success, and this is our opportunity to build on that work and ensure all partners in the community listen to young people and work together in delivering services for the future."

KCC Cabinet Member for Community Services Mike Hill said: "It is very important that we listen to young people when addressing their needs and this strategy will ensure that we work together to improve their lives based on their ideas and opinions on the issues that affect them most."

For more information about Youth Services, the Youth Strategy, or the Dover District Youth Forum, please contact DDC Youth Officer Yvonne Holder on (01304) 872153.