ADCS viewpoint on the riots
Matt Dunkley
Monday, August 22, 2011
Association of Directors of Children's Services president Matt Dunkley says local authorities will be at the heart of rebuilding communities.
"As we struggle to make sense of the tragic events in London and other major cities, we should resist the temptation to find a short-term single cause or remedy, and focus instead on the complex work ahead with the communities most affected. The challenges that face local and central government are immense, not least because the greater proportion of cuts to services to young people are in the pipeline, but not yet implemented. Local authorities will need to work with the government to provide as many services for young people as possible, while targeting these services on those in most need.
"We must remember that much of the violence and disorder involved more adults than young people, and criminal activity occurred in boroughs where youth services cuts are yet to take place. Moreover, many young people did not join the violence but supported their communities and contributed to the clean-up - we must avoid labelling all young people as troublemakers.
"The economic turmoil of recent weeks will have as much, if not greater, effect on young people as the riots, with its effect on employment. Local authorities will be at the heart of rebuilding communities in the immediate aftermath and for the long haul. This must involve co-ordination of a wide range of services, including those to strengthen families and support young people, but also relate to housing, employment opportunities and community facilities. This will need to be done, regardless of public sector funding structures, and will require all the dynamism and innovation that local government can muster."