Pic: Tower Hamlets Council

Young people, parents and carers are being urged to make their views about youth services in Tower Hamlets known as part of a major review in the borough.

The review includes a consultation open to residents, housing associations, third sector groups, teachers and youth workers. People taking part can have their say by completing an online survey or attending one of two meetings.

Mayor of Tower Hamlets, John Biggs said: “This is a good opportunity for us to step back and look at what our youth service does well and where we can improve it to meet the needs of our young people.

“Before we make any decisions I am very keen to hear views and opinions of young people themselves, as they are ultimately the best judge of what services they want.”

The online campaign consists of three separate surveys, targeted at young people, parent/carers and stakeholders. The surveys went live on Monday, February 29 and will remain open until Monday, April 11.

The surveys take around 10 minutes to complete. The young people’s survey asks questions such as what type of services they use and how often/how far they have to travel as well as how important a range of factors are to them, such as anti-bullying services and the chance to learn something they might not at school or college. Parent/carer and stakeholder surveys also focus on what kind of support they feel they need from the council.

There are also two public meetings, for young people and stakeholders. The first of these – a stakeholder event – took place on Friday, March 4. After the consultation closes, results from the survey and feedback will be analysed and recommendations put forward for consideration.

Rachael Saunders, cabinet member for Children’s Services said: “We in Tower Hamlets are proud of the achievements of our young people, and we want a youth service that is there to back them up and support them.”

The council currently provides a dedicated youth service for young people aged 11-19, and up to the age of 25 if they have Special Educational Needs or Disability (SEND). It includes 39 separate provisions as well as services for people with SEND. Activities range from sports to music to outdoor education and performing arts.