Statement on involvement of young people in riots 6-9 August 2011

Faiza Chaudary, Deputy Chief Executive of the National Council for Voluntary Youth Services (NCVYS), Nick Wilkie, Chief Executive of London Youth and Charlotte Hill, Chief Executive of UK Youth have made the following statement about the riots that have taken place in London and other towns and cities in England.

"Events of the last three nights are sad and alarming. The violence and looting we are seeing is criminal and disgraceful.

"The acts of violence are not one dimensional and there are many questions to be answered about their causes. Simply blaming these events on cuts to public services risks letting violent criminals off the hook and does not help the communities involved. Equally, we must take a strong look at issues around unemployment, poverty and engagement in communities to ensure solutions to these form part of the re-building process.

"Today, the priority is to bring calm to the streets. Youth clubs all over the country are staying open today, working hard with young people who are frightened and with young people who have a choice to make. Good youth workers have a critical role to play helping young people make the right choice tonight.  We need to remember too that the vast majority of young people play an active and positive role in their communities.

"When order has been restored, all sections of society need to talk about how we support communities, including how we support young people, especially in times of economic chaos. We know community-based youth work has a critical role to play in this. We believe that strong communities involve young people and this must be part of a joined up and longer term solution."

Other organisations who have added their support to this statement include Brathay, Leap Confronting Conflict, Community Matter, Pro-Action and V.  

For more information or press enquiries, please contact the NCVYS press office on press@ncvys.org.uk or 0207 843 6471.