thanks for the pointer - have left a reply. Does she really expect replies though? (most of those who write for CYPNow don't seem to engage a great deal)

As you will note from my own post - I strongly disagree with making youthwork a profession that targets just the marginalised and disenfranchised. How can a youth worker be a voice in the community if they do not engage with it? How can a youth worker be that bridge for those on the edges if he doesn't have a foot on one side of the river?

I know that it is important to reach out to those who are 'lost' and to bring them back into the fold. Yet as youth workers we are individuals who are sometimes King Canute sweeping back the tide. If we see our work as something we do on our own, perhaps with a team of other like-minded workers who are spread out across a wide area and spectrum then we are never going to make much of a difference. If we see our work as engaging others to want to make that difference with us then we will be much more effective.

Hi Chris, thanks for your comment. I agree that it's dangerous to focus solely on one demographic - whether that's the marginalised or the affluent. Youth work should inform and inspire all aspects of life and society which is why it is such a diverse and wonderful vocation.

You referred to your own blog, but didn't leave the link. Can you add it here?

Sorry Chris, found it! You commented on the original article at CYPN

I think its a very narrow minded approach I've had experience of proving that an all inclusive approach has better results if done in mind that it is still the minority that take up the most of your time.

I'll be very surprised if expressing these views will make any difference though or in fact if they even get noticed. Good to hear like minded views though :-)