As anticipated (YPN, 25-31 October 2006, p2), the guidance on clause six of the Education and Inspections Act published this week places a strong emphasis on youth work.
Clause six came into force on Monday and requires local authorities to provide sufficient "educational" and "recreational" leisure-time activities for 13- to 19-year-olds.
The draft guidance defines youth work as a key part of the educational element of this offer. It stresses the importance of providers in the private or voluntary sectors.
John Bateman, chief executive of voluntary sector youth organisation UK Youth, said: "This will encourage people to look to the voluntary sector."
Tom Wylie, chief executive of The National Youth Agency, said: "It needs to be further developed into standards."
There is no extra funding for authorities to implement the guidance, with the exception of a duty to publicise positive activities. Authorities received 4.5m to support this in 2006-07 and will receive the same in 2007-08.
The guidance is open to consultation until 30 March.
