Ghosts of Labour system are very much present

However, based on the freedoms and flexibilities that will flow from the devolution of responsibility for delivery to the local level, the document claims to project a radical approach to youth policy. It is not: there may be some reluctance to acknowledge it, but the ghosts of Connexions (a universal service differentiated according to need) and Labour's "triple track approach" (prevention and early intervention, non-negotiable support and enforcement) are very much present.

There is a lot to commend in the vision of Positive for Youth. It is an integrated vision, addressing the spectrum of challenges and influences in young people's lives. It is indeed positive, in that it is concerned with the promotion and achievement of good outcomes for young people, rather than focused on the negativities in (some) young people's lives. And it is based on a partnership approach that involves, on this front for the first time, the private sector, alongside traditional players such as public authorities, communities, charities and other voluntary groups. This is in keeping with the government's political preferences, but also necessary given the squeeze on public finances.