THE NATIONAL YOUTH AGENCY: Comment - More than skin deep

An interesting older youth organisations is the National Association of Clubs for Young People (NACYP). It was once better known as the Boys Clubs but changed its name a decade ago because its local clubs had substantial numbers of girls in membership. The national body is growing rapidly as more clubs affiliate. What is the attraction? Well, some of it is about mundane - albeit increasingly important - insurance cover. There is the long-standing appeal of a chance to take part in national sports competitions.

Now there is the remarkable success of its scheme to give access to the arts.

Activities apart, it also remains successful in providing youth work in disadvantaged neighbourhoods and with young people who would struggle to meet the costs of commercial leisure activities. Such success does not come from offering better insurance or even a good football tournament. It comes from offering high-quality youth work night after night with skilled adults who can promote young people's engagement, development and voice. A future publication from NACYP will set out a contemporary approach to quality assurance in youth clubs. It represents an important role of a national headquarters - identifying and disseminating good practice - to set alongside others such as training and curriculum development.