Soapbox: In support of young people

It's tough being a young person today.

Either they're demonised as out-of-control, anti-social nuisances or they are in constant danger from sinister forces lurking anywhere and everywhere.

Luckily, most of the time, for most young people, neither of these extremes apply.

From where I sit, as Director of a Youth Arts Organisation that has been working with young people for over twenty years, the young people I come into contact with every day are polite, respectful, keen, funny and full of energy and high spirits.

Of course we must be mindful of the dangers out there - be it crossing the road or eating too much junk food.

But we know what young people need, they need what everyone needs, - a sense of belonging, respect and status.

Young people also need 'places to go and things to do'.

This we can all agree on, from government, parents to young people themselves.

The issue is about 'where' and 'what', because outdoor spaces and public spaces are few and far between, and kids just 'hanging out ' with their friends can be misinterpreted as a threat.

We need places that are safe and where young people can feel a sense of ownership.

This is what we have created at Paddington Arts, and where we run a programme of dance, drama, singing, video and new media.

Young people need to be given opportunities to express themselves, and have their voice heard, and this is why we are building a 'Digital Newsroom' with the aim of producing a News and Current Affairs internet TV station.

Anyone wanting to find out more can contact me on 020 7286 2722 or steve@paddingtonarts.org.uk.