According to several newspapers, this document may include plans to disband Connexions. The only comforting thing about this news is that the green paper contains draft policies that will only be set in concrete by a later white paper.
That's why myself and other reference group members are fighting to save Connexions by writing to Tony Blair, other ministers and the press.
A young organisation like Connexions needs time to grow and get on its feet. But if you look at the statistics, you will see that Connexions Cheshire and Warrington has beaten government targets.
A survey of young people also produced interesting figures, with 95 per cent saying Connexions Cheshire and Warrington has a lot to offer and more than 70 per cent saying Connexions had helped them decide what to do in the next few years, while 98 per cent said they were aware of Connexions.
The statistics say it all, so why is it that the Government feels it necessary to shut the organisation down? Connexions is such a useful service.
Among other things, it provides careers advice for all young people. I can understand those of you who have problems with Connexions, as I was once one of you. But having used the service, I now feel it is very worthwhile.
It seems that once again the Government will be throwing away the money it has spent on a useful service.
What will happen to the young people who need guidance in the years to come? All I can see is the Government having to spend money creating a new advice organisation, which will cost more than it would to keep Connexions running.
By keeping Connexions open, at least there won't be any disheartened young people at a loose end. The Government says that wouldn't happen because it is going to give the money it spends on in-school personal advisers to the school itself. But a school is more likely to keep the money for other things, give a one-sided view that says the young person should stay on in the sixth form, or do nothing because of a lack of time.
It may take a while but we will do our best to get other Connexions districts to help us save the service. Will the Government listen?
- Calum McManus, member, Connexions Cheshire and Warrington Young People's Reference Group
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