Letters to the Editor 5 July 2016: Improve youth services, don't close them

The announcement that Tower Hamlets will close 18 of its 26 youth centres is another blow for young people (Youth centres to close amid corruption claims, cypnow.co.uk, 23 June).

Youth clubs provide a safe space for young people to have fun, learn new skills, try new things and make a positive contribution in their communities. The mayor of London has publicly recognised their positive role, as well as their importance in preventing young people from being victims of crime or violence. And leading figures in education - including the Secretary of State - have made clear the importance they attach to opportunities that help young people develop character - which is one of the strongest and clearest outcomes of good youth work.

Yet once again, we've seen a local authority cut these services, at a time when they are likely to be needed most. We of course recognise that local authorities want to ensure services are high quality. But if the services aren't good enough, improve them - don't close them.

Through our network of independent youth organisations, we support hundreds of youth clubs to achieve a recognised quality standard, so guaranteeing that young people and parents can trust the clubs will offer a great, and safe, experience.

Our fear is that voluntary organisations in Tower Hamlets and in neighbouring boroughs, including London Youth member clubs such as the historic Attlee Club and St Hilda's Community Centre, will be expected to simply absorb the young people who are left with nowhere else to go.

Let's stop saying we want the best for young people, just to then take away those very services that support them to become the best.

Jim Minton, director of membership and communications, London Youth


Obituary: Regan Metcalfe

It is with great sadness that I write to share with those who haven't yet heard news of the death recently of Regan Metcalfe, aged 34. I first met Regan when she was 13, and even that time her indomitable spirit shone out. She had a difficult time in care, moving 56 times, and understandably struggled to find her footing when she first moved into adulthood and independence. However, she did find her way and became a fierce campaigner and trainer, her passion for the things she cared about helping her overcome her own adversities.

As well as running her own training company assisting professionals in the understanding and management of self-harm, Regan was a great supporter of The Care Leavers, Foundation. She was a member of the care leavers, panel which was responsible for the delivery of the New Belongings Project; she energised and inspired people around her and will leave a gap in many people's lives that is uniquely Regan and can never be filled.

Regan was passionate about many things in the system that she felt needed to change. One that was especially close to her heart was the stigma attached to people who have experienced mental health problems in the past, and the second-class treatment they receive in every part of the health system as a result.

Regan's life was eventually taken by a rare and virulent disease that she fought against to the last. Only two months ago she had come out of hospital, determined to keep working and to create better social care, education and health systems for children who grow up in care.

Janet Rich, trustee, The Care Leavers, Foundation