It is a startling claim. But there is logic to it. An effective service to young people should be shaped by young people. It should have young people observing, evaluating and recommending changes. That process is an integral part of delivering a service. Young evaluators or researchers are doing a crucial job. Therefore all are co-workers.
If it is meaningful, large numbers of young people will be engaged in that research and feedback process. And if young people are co-workers, they should be paid for their work.
A paid job
Increasingly, both are happening. The days of two token young people on a management committee are disappearing. Wider and deeper consultations are helping determine all kinds of youth services, often using young people as researchers. Young people are acquiring skills in research and carrying out robust inspections using standard evaluatory techniques. They are finding innovative and creative ways to get more accurate information from their peers, building on the advantages of their understanding and rapport. And yes, despite some obvious problems, young people are being paid for their time and effort in shaping the services they assist.
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