Meeting of the Parliament 21 January 2016
This is a really interesting subject. Every one of us who has the privilege of representing people in Scotland could reel off loads of examples in which young people in our communities have been volunteering for years, whether in organisations that have already been mentioned, in local churches or through their local schools, irrespective of whether awards can be gained at the end of it. However, over the past few years, I have really enjoyed seeing a recognition throughout society of how important that volunteering is.
I am also really pleased to see “A review of youth awards in Scotland” because, when the awards were introduced, there was some scepticism about whether they could be as successful as the then ministers suggested. It is good to see in the report by Education Scotland that,
“Since the establishment of the Awards Network in 2008, there has been a significant growth in participation and completion of youth awards.”
It has been pretty major. That has confirmed what many of us feel about volunteering for young people in all walks of life. It can develop confidence—the confidence that comes from the recognition of winning something is huge and makes a young person feel that they are a vital part of what is happening—interpersonal, team working and leadership skills and employability. It is important that we link those things up.
I am interested in a couple of the key strengths that the report identifies and how they relate to the aspects for further development. One of the key strengths that is noted is that
“For some young people facing additional challenges participation in youth awards is life changing.”
That is absolutely super to hear, but it has to be linked to the aspects for further development and a recognition that, sometimes, it is not those who could benefit the most who end up in such schemes.
Page 8 of the report says that there are
“Few examples of partnerships taking a well-planned strategic approach to increasing access to and impact of youth awards”
and that
“There is scope for an increased focus on using youth awards to address prevention and early intervention.”
I do not take that as a criticism. It is marvellous that we have a monitoring situation further down the line—[Interruption.]
I am quite happy to talk in the dark, Presiding Officer, if you would like me to carry on.