But how much of a good thing do they really think it is? I get the impression that for many – maybe even for most – it is desirable, but not essential. Great to talk about, great sometimes to do, but an early target when the search for budget cuts begins. Participation work has been seen as "fluffy", not rigorously delivered. Of course we should do it – the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child says we should– but does it really matter?
Yes it does. It is one of the most important themes that should be running through children and youth services, it lies at the heart of tackling much of the disengagement that many young people feel from their society, and it has a key part to play in supporting emotional and social development and preparing young people for adult responsibilities. But to see why, we need to look back into history.
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