The National Youth Agency: Comment - Pay attention to evidence

We demonstrated that investment in youth and community services meant that the authority was more able to achieve its corporate objectives. We used data to supplement qualitative evidence. We understood local authority finances; demonstrated the costs and benefits of activity; knew who was using our services and where. Service providers understood their communities and the service requirements. We explained the youth work contribution to community cohesion and why regional and national bodies should invest in community ICT. We could answer the first NYA Audit and even argue about whether "contacts" were unique or double counted. Ofsted liked us; so did young people. We were pleased with our retention rate and the distribution of provision. We knew our shortcomings and where we needed to improve. We had a system for talking to young people as part of planning. It was a good start.