Keepin' It Real - A Resource for Involving Young People in Decision-Making

Youth participation is a central feature of successful youth programming and effective policy-making. It is an important part of the development of citizenship and youth development. Young people bring with them new ways of thinking and acting that add value to the work of organisations. We can contribute to the positive development of young people by creating opportunities for them to influence, inform, shape, design and contribute to an idea or activity. Including young people in the development of policies, services and programmes for them will ensure that their needs are met. Adults as well as young people can gain new skills and experience through youth participation.