the Help Files....

Involving children and Young People in the Design and Care of Urban Spaces

"In many public spaces – parks, street corners and grassy plots – children and teenagers are the main users, but too often they are excluded from making decisions about what happens to these places. It is important that they have a continuous involvement in the design and management of public spaces"

engagement and integration of young people through dialogue and mutual respect

"First, it is important for them to be allowed to contribute to their communities and to be able to make decisions about what happens in their environment. In this way, children can develop respect for different members of their community and for differences of opinion, learn about the workings of local government and, crucially, develop a sense of self-worth by being taken seriously and valued by other people. Only by being involved and feeling that they can affect what happens will young people feel a sense of ownership and responsibility in using the public realm. And only by being involved as children will they as adults feel the same sense of responsibility and pride in their environment."

"....children and young people are both willing and able to get involved in the design and development of public space. They can understand and discuss complex issues. They are capable of judging risks, taking decisions and making things happen. They are often concerned about local issues and the needs of other people, and are keen to do something to make a difference. By getting involved in improving open spaces, young people can see the real and concrete results of their contribution."

However:

"One of the major barriers to young people’s participation is the way that adults see them."

"Involving children in public space projects takes time and commitment..... An open and supportive atmosphere needs to be cultivated that encourages young people to ask questions and allows enough time for proper explanations."

We have a range of levels at which we can help partners to consult and engage these young people in the design and delivery of projects and we would always ask them to avail of this at the earliest possible stage in their plans.

"Involving and listening to young people from an early stage and seeing them as part of the solution are central to a successful project." - CABE

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