In the past year, 208,466 young people started their Duke of Edinburgh Award journey (a year-on-year increase of 13 per cent). The demand is greater than we have the resources to support. Thousands are turned away by their local authority youth service, school or youth group each year through lack of resources; heartbreaking and frustrating to me.
Our experience of working with young people with a range of abilities and backgrounds confirms to us that David Blunkett is correct that young people will respond positively to opportunity presented to them by enthusiastic, motivated and skilled adults.
I am keen that the government is not encouraged to reinvent the wheel. There are excellent organisations and programmes of activity in existence that can do more if given the encouragement and resources.
Peter Westgarth, chief executive, The Duke of Edinburgh's Award.
Disengaged youth need a voice
I'm dismayed that the recent riots have created the impression that young people are a destructive force in our society. Prime Minister David Cameron is right that rioters displayed "appalling behaviour". However, as a strong believer in positive, meaningful participation, and a teenager, I think we need to respond carefully.
Nationwide, young people are disengaged. There is no excuse for violence and looting. But imagine being 15 or 16 and knowing politicians have no need to impress or woo you.
We need to work with the silent millions who aren't yet of voting age or who simply feel powerless. We should be helping them get involved with local campaigning groups, offering them opportunities with charities, and encourage them to start a meaningful dialogue with their MP. Through active participation, young people can leave an indelible imprint on politicians, press and our country.
Leon Ward (age 19), Trustee, Plan UK
Listen to young people's needs
While the Unicef report into children's wellbeing highlights some critical issues, it could have gone further.
We need to tackle the compulsive pressure that parents feel in this country to buy material goods for their children. We need to educate parents because our research has shown us time and again that what they want is time with their families.
Income is an important factor and will become more so. Children's wellbeing should be a priority outcome measure for national and local government. If we are to formulate effective policy, it is imperative that we listen to what children and young people tell us.
Bob Reitemeier, chief executive, The Children's Society
