For a sector that has been largely ignored by policymakers since 2011's Positive for Youth strategy, the focus offers a chance to invigorate the youth work sector (see Analysis).
While the pledges have been widely welcomed, some youth leaders are concerned the measures view youth work through a narrow prism of tackling violence. When the proposals go out to consultation, youth sector leaders must ensure they make the case for increased investment in both targeted and universal services.
For a case in point, the government should look at the work of Redthread - whose chief executive John Poyton was one of the youth charity leaders to attend the summit. It targets support at young victims of violence when they are in hospital - this "teachable moment" is used as a catalyst to divert them away from crime.
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