P a r t 2 - T h e strategy This strategy has been developed for a period of two years (2009-2011). It is based on the principles that not only recognise the importance of young people in society but also recognises the need to build a culture of participation supported by robust structures. Our aim is to provide a platform where young people can get their voices heard, giving Brent’s youngest residents the opportunity to lead in bringing about change in their community, thereby making Brent a great place for all children and young people to grow up in (vision for Brent’s youngest residents as outlined in the Children and Young People’s Plan (CYPP) 2009-2011). This strategy builds on the CYPP priority ‘giving young people access to the very best opportunities in and out of school’. The strategic context is illustrated in fig 3. This section • sets out Brent’s priorities for the next two years that will further improve youth participation practice across agencies • sets out our approach towards meeting our priorities and • sets out the governance arrangements to monitor the implementation of the strategy.
Fig 3: Strategic context
Partners for Brent (Local Strategic Partnership)
Crime Prevention Strategy Group
Brent Children’s Partnership
Community Strategy
Health and Social Care Partnership Local Area Agreement
Community Safety Strategy
Children and Young People’s Plan
Health and Well-being Strategy
Youth Participation Strategy
Our Priorities This strategy reflects the Brent Children’s Partnership’s desire to create a borough where young people feel empowered and are able to exercise their right to have an influence over local spending and the shaping of services. In deciding the priorities that will ensure the active involvement of young people in decision making, we have considered our strengths and areas for improvement based on the Hear By Right Standards Framework, looked at our Annual Performance Assessment and have listened to what young people have said to us. We have selected four broad priorities which we consider to be vital in ensuring the active involvement of young people in policy development and decision making. Our aim is for all services provided to young people to reach and stay above rung eight of the ‘Ladder of Participation’ mentioned earlier in this strategy. Youth Participation Strategy for Brent 7
PRIORITY ONE to ensure a robust culture of participation exists across the key public services provided to young people in Brent. PRIORITY TWO to ensure that the views of young people are clearly reflected in policy development and decision making processes affecting young people. PRIOTIY THREE through youth participation, to support young people in becoming responsible individuals and active citizens. PRIOTIY FOUR to work with partner organisations and the community to tackle the negative perceptions and attitudes towards young people and celebrate their achievements.