It is heartening that the issue of social exclusion still figures high on the Government's agenda (YPN, 13-19 September, p2) and that there is a clear commitment to tackling the needs of the most excluded.
YMCA England was encouraged to see that in Reaching Out: An Action Plan on Social Exclusion, the Government recognises the high levels of trust that third sector organisations attract from socially excluded people.
The ability of charities to reach and provide services to the most excluded is key and should be further developed.
While YMCA England supports early intervention and tackling inequality of opportunity, we would also urge the Government not to let young people fall through the gap. While Reaching Out addresses socially excluded parents, children and adults in depth, there is little specific mention of young people. Teenage pregnancy and the needs of care-leavers are addressed but vulnerable young people often require a "holistic" approach in tackling the many forms of social exclusion that blight their lives.
Register Now to Continue Reading
Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's Included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here
