Future generations:

Abstract

This chapter presents two non-statutory approaches aimed at engaging young people in the community. The Youth United Foundation (YUF) supports the development of well-established community-based organisations including the Scouts, Guides, and Boys' Brigade, joined recently by the creation of new uniformed youth organisations, including Fire and Police Cadets, to help significantly increase opportunities for young people from the most disadvantaged communities. Building on the place-based policies of the London Borough of Sutton, Sutton Community Dance (SCD) is an example of reimagining the local high street and prioritising shared places as an important context for building intergenerational bridges. Such a model of reimagination and creative agility will be critical in helping already challenged town centres to develop new possibilities for reform post the COVID-19 pandemic. This all-age inclusive development makes a significant contribution to the social determinants of health in this South London borough, through improvements in health and wellbeing and the promotion of self-actualisation.