Publisher's Synopsis
Young people in Britain aged between 16 and 25 endure increasing levels of disadvantage, particularly those living in deprived areas. Since the early 1990s, the difficulties faced by such young people have become a matter of concern for urban regeneration initiatives. A key aspect of this emerging 'youth focus' within regeneration schemes has been the development of ways of involving young people as active participants in the process of change within their communities. Drawing on an in-depth study of 12 regeneration initiatives across the UK where youth issues have some prominence, this report examines: the extent to which young people's needs are being met by urban regeneration initiatives; the nature and effectiveness of various mechanisms for involving young people in regeneration initiatives; the impacts of young people's participation in decision making about urban regeneration. The report concludes that many adults still have a lot to learn about including youth in regeneration projects. It will be key reading for those involved in youth-focused regeneration initiatives, including urban regeneration policy makers and practitioners, adults involved in community organisations, youth workers and young people themselves.