It is always refreshing to hear the views of young people. Yesterday Saturday I met with a small focus group of Young People from Ladywood.
They pointed out that they feel that they are not listened too and the fact that they feel marginalised from the mainstream of society and just regarded as a problem.
One actually pointed out that owing to the lack of Youth Provision in Ladywood such as community centres and Youth clubs and many have to travel out of the area, this has led to some of his friends hanging out on the streets and getting into trouble, hence ending up in prison. These are through the eyes of a young person.
They feel that decisions are being made without asking them their views and people do not understand their issues and anxieties.
They also pointed out the strained relationship with the Police and their inability to seek redress at some of the treatment, which they see as being unfair at times.
When it comes to voting and the political system, there was a consensus that they did not really see the point as they did not see the relevance of the system of governance, as it appeared to top down as apposed to bottom up.
Clearly, there are several issues that the youth of Ladywood face and thankfully by the end, those that were eligible did register to vote.
This does demonstrate that we need to pay attention and listen to the voices of our children and youngsters; not patronise them and act.
For these young people the dialogue towards change has commenced, despite the apprehension. It does clearly demonstrate that there is a long way to go in order to tackle the disaffection of our youngsters.
Desmond Jaddoo
They pointed out that they feel that they are not listened too and the fact that they feel marginalised from the mainstream of society and just regarded as a problem.
One actually pointed out that owing to the lack of Youth Provision in Ladywood such as community centres and Youth clubs and many have to travel out of the area, this has led to some of his friends hanging out on the streets and getting into trouble, hence ending up in prison. These are through the eyes of a young person.
They feel that decisions are being made without asking them their views and people do not understand their issues and anxieties.
They also pointed out the strained relationship with the Police and their inability to seek redress at some of the treatment, which they see as being unfair at times.
When it comes to voting and the political system, there was a consensus that they did not really see the point as they did not see the relevance of the system of governance, as it appeared to top down as apposed to bottom up.
Clearly, there are several issues that the youth of Ladywood face and thankfully by the end, those that were eligible did register to vote.
This does demonstrate that we need to pay attention and listen to the voices of our children and youngsters; not patronise them and act.
For these young people the dialogue towards change has commenced, despite the apprehension. It does clearly demonstrate that there is a long way to go in order to tackle the disaffection of our youngsters.
Desmond Jaddoo
| 
|