Description
Book SynopsisThis engaging book paints a picture of passionate grassroots youth workers, at a time when their practice is threatened by spending cuts, target cultures and market imperatives. Using interviews, dialogue and research diary excerpts the author brings youth work practice and theory to life.
Trade Review"Essential reading for youth workers and other creative and critical thinkers who are looking for the cracks where life can still break up and break through the grids of control." Janet Batsleer, Manchester Metropolitan University
"written with an engaging freshness, honesty and vigour...Tania de St Croix has written the best book on youth work since Mark K. Smith’s seminal Creators not Consumers, published in 1980." Youth & Policy
“An in-depth look at the devastating impacts of neoliberal reform policies on youth services and youth work that illuminates the dedication and passion of youth workers against the backdrop of a dehumanizing work environment.” Dana Fusco, York College USA "The book is essential reading for anyone in the youth work sector in England, and recommendations are included which appear most useful to organisations delivering youth work. The passion of the youth workers involved is inspiring while the situation in which many find themselves should act as a warning to international readers." Chris Martin, University of Leicester
"An excellent resource for youthwork practitioners, capturing the difficult climate for youth work." Jess Bishop, Coventry University
"A motivational and inspiring insight into the experiences of part-time and volunteer youth workers, providing an opportunity to hear their voices within policy and practice" Emma Chivers, University of South Wales
Table of ContentsIntroduction; The marketisation of youth work; Passionate practice; Target cultures and performativity; Surveillance on the street; Practising differently; Reclaiming and reimagining youth work; Afterword: Research methodology Appendix: Research participants.
