Having Their Say: Young People and Participation: European Experences

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HAVING THEIR SAY: YOUNG PEOPLE AND  
PARTICIPATION: EUROPEAN EXPERIENCES 

David Crimmens and Andrew West (editors), RHP

ISBN 1898924 78 3, £15.95  

Not so long ago, involving and consulting young people was
regarded as radical innovation in societies that approved the
slogan that children should be seen and not heard, writes Roy
Grimwood.    But the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child,
which underpins a great deal of recent legislation, places
participation and consultation centre-stage.   Whether young people
are involved as experts (for example, as people in care), as
decision-makers in strategy and policy, or simply to exercise more
control over their own lives, it is important that their
participation is meaningful, and not just tokenism. It also
requires a cultural shift throughout society.  This book does two
things to help people get it right.   The editors provide chapters
exploring a theoretical model and an overview of the role of the
government.  These chapters are followed by nine varied examples of
youth participation from around Europe, including one Eastern
European nation.  This book is an invaluable and practical tool for
anyone charged with ensuring the participation of children. 

Roy Grimwood is an independent consultant and trainer in
residential child care and social care management .