The failure to involve the public in Croydon Council’s plans regarding proposed cuts to youth services has been deemed an “affront” to young individuals and their families, according to Labour MP Natasha Irons.
The MP representing Croydon East criticized the Conservative-led administration for excluding the very voices that should have been included in the discussion.
Croydon’s Youth Engagement Team (YET) offers vital support and educational services to the local youth, as well as their families, whether they live, work, or study in the area.
A spokesperson for Croydon Council commented, “We aim to reform the service to optimize assistance and support for the young people who need it most, and in the most effective manner.”
The YET functions as a connector among the council, voluntary groups, and young individuals, providing resources including a weekly youth hub located in New Addington.
Charlene, a mother from New Addington, expressed her concerns about the manner in which the council conducted its consultations and whether they truthfully represented the opinions of young people.
“Two middle-aged white women visited the youth club. They didn’t ask questions that allowed [my son] to convey his true feelings,” she shared with the Local Democracy Reporting Service.
Charlene emphasized the significance of the New Addington youth club for her children’s growth, remarking: “The staff excel at creating a conversational and relaxed atmosphere. That’s what makes the team so remarkable and why it’s so beloved by the children.”
The council, which was under Labour’s control at the time, initiated an internal consultation with its employees in December after deciding to cut core funding for the YET in March 2022.
Despite repeated requests for a public consultation, no formal invitations to families or community members were issued, as reported by LDRS.
Ms. Irons noted that while she advocated for broader community participation, she was informed that the consultation period had already closed.
“Croydon deserves a transparent public consultation process rather than this covert method, which leaves us with more uncertainties than clarity,” she stated in a release.
“The report set to be released by the council this month must clearly detail how it intends to safeguard youth services in areas such as New Addington and ensure that young people across Croydon have access to the support and resources they are entitled to.”
In response to the LDRS, a Croydon Council representative affirmed that they had engaged with staff, parents, schools, young people, and partners in the voluntary sector during the review process. They also highlighted their significant investment in youth services, including the allocation of £271,000 from the Violence Reduction Unit for 2023.
Additionally, the council has earmarked another £200,000 for the period of 2025-26 to aid youth outreach and mentoring via local community organizations, it was stated.
The council’s consultation report is scheduled for discussion at a scrutiny meeting on May 13.
