We are planning a youth work residential trip to Amsterdam. The boys say they have been to the sexual health clinic and got lots of condoms. My colleague is winding them up, talking about them going to the red light district and “making men of them”. What should I do?
The approach of your colleague is very worrying. Amsterdam is an interesting place with a unique and compelling history and social attitude. To suggest that it should be a trip to “make a man” of anyone is inappropriate, leaving aside the false expectations it sets for young people.
Parents and carers of the group would want to know that their children are being taken care of. Whether you work for a local authority or a voluntary group, the reputation of the service ought to be taken into account. You should talk to your line manager as a matter of urgency and register your disapproval of such behaviour.
Answered by Tracie Trimmer-Platman, senior lecturer in youth and community work at the University of East London
Email questions, marked “Experts”, to cypnow@markallengroup.com
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