Youth Work - by Tracie Trimmer-Platman

Book Synopsis

Youth and community work is a long-contested profession which has been challenged and required to adapt in order to address social and political priorities. 'Open access' youth work - which is informal, youth-centred and open-ended - has faced the most criticism in favour of target-driven approaches.

This book assesses the impact of a unique youth and community space in East London, part of the 2012 Olympic legacy, created specifically to support local young people in addressing the challenges and difficulties in their lives. It gives clear and practical evidence of the significant benefits of open access youth work, with guidance on replicating best practice in similar urban environments.

Review Quotes

"This book offers a compelling and insightful exploration of open access youth work and community engagement. A must-read for youth practitioners, researchers and policy makers alike." Mark McFeeters, Ulster University

About the Author

Tracie Trimmer-Platman is Senior Lecturer at the University of East London and has been a youth and community work practitioner for over 35 years.