‘Takeover day' seeks to bridge generational gap

The stereotyping of young people in some avenues of the media affects attitudes to young people, social cohesion and the strength of our communities. An Ipsos Mori poll conducted in 2007 showed that more than half of articles in national newspapers relating to young people are negative. Furthermore, only a tenth actually include a quote from a young person.

The annual “takeover day”, organised by the Office of the Children’s Commissioner, provides an opportunity to show young people’s value to society. Each year, more than 40,000 young people are brought in to workplaces across the country, from police stations to local council departments and public relations offices, and even their own schools. Britain’s young people are some of our most creative, and takeover day provides a platform for them to showcase this and break down some of the barriers between generations.