An Action Plan for Community Empowerment: building on success

So this is more "power to the people" stuff?

That's the idea. Communities secretary Hazel Blears says her political approach "is anchored in localism and devolution". This new action plan, she explains in her introduction, is part of the ongoing shift to localism marked by policy documents such as the Governance of Britain green paper and Strong and Prosperous Communities white paper. From 2009 there will be a statutory duty to involve local people in decision making and this action plan is intended get things moving.

It fits in with "Aiming High" then?

Absolutely. The government's 10-year strategy for young people has several priorities that match the 23 action points highlighted here. Empowerment of young people is a strong theme in both documents, with this action plan talking of backing steps to "unleash the energy and enthusiasm of young people to shape their services". Highlighted here are Rochdale's Junior Neighbourhood Warden scheme and the national Young Adviser scheme. This currently runs in 20 localities and supports young people's champions aged 15 to 21 who speak out to planners and decision makers on young people's needs and "youth proof" new policies.