Youth work roundup: Panic attacks, body image campaign and funding cuts

Online charity YouthNet has launched a new campaign designed to remove the stigma surrounding panic attacks among young people. The Panic Attack Monster campaign is based on a series of short films that follow a fictional character who represents how it feels to suffer a panic attack. The campaign also provides advice on how to support friends who experience panic attacks.

Youth campaigners are calling for primary schools to warn children of the dangers of wanting to look thin like celebrities. The Times reports that YMCA England and Girlguiding, together with retailers Debenhams and New Look, want schools to include body image in their curriculum once children reach seven years old as part of efforts to help them feel more confident about their weight and looks.

Up to 100 youth workers are at risk in Shropshire as the council seeks to save £140,000 from its youth services budget. The Oswestry and Border Counties Advertiser reports that the authority wants to outsource the management of its youth services to third-party providers.

Employment minister Esther McVey has warned that young people will struggle to find work unless employers offer them work experience. The Daily Mail reports that McVey wants employers to do everything they can to inspire young people and to equip them with the skills required for work.

Trafford Council is considering closing six youth centres as part of plans to save £24m from its total spend for 2015/16. The Manchester Evening News reports that the council could also make cuts to its Connexions and children’s centre services.