The community leaders of the future are young people now. Bringing young people into the decision making process can be regarded as a long term approach to community development and capacity building. Frequently, young people have distinct needs, and experience different problems to other sections of society. Young people are often a focus of some elements of regeneration programmes. Involving them in project design and management can help to ensure that services for young people are appropriately targeted, and are fully taken up.
Young people are also likely to have a different perception of living in an area than older people.
Failure to take account of young people's views may mean missed opportunities. It may also undermine the sustainability of the benefits secured by regeneration programmes. However, involving young people in regeneration programmes is not straightforward. They are unlikely to participate in mainstream events set up to involve the community. A rather different approach is required to ensure their involvement.