As senior members of the Asian community claim not enough is being done to get Asian youth off the streets. Youth organisations have responded by insisting their hands are tied due to bureaucracy and people not letting them do their job properly.

However the question that needs to be asked is – Has anyone actually asked the youth what they want?

How many youngsters do you know that have not fulfilled their potential? Youngsters who were once the apple of their parents’ eyes have been seduced by a glorified form of street culture that promotes cultural imperialism.

However as Chief Superintendent Barry South said the Police can play a part in helping not just the Asian youth, but young people from a variety of communities. He insists it will take time for his team to link up with all the youth agencies within Kirklees and instead of working in isolation, work together as a collective unit. Local Councillors and MP’s will also have to play a part in this if they genuinely want to help young people.

AWAAZ understands that youth agencies across Kirklees have links with many voluntary organisations across Kirklees. However when questioned by AWAAZ a number of Young people claimed they had never been approached by community leaders or youth organisations. With regards to young people’s events, the only notable events they knew about was a Muslim Professional Fun Day at Birkdale High School in Dewsbury. They spoke of a visit to a museum organised by the same organisation, along with a Batley Youth Forum presentation that attracted hundreds of young people at the Al Hikmah centre. Incidentally, the youth enjoyed these events, as they were run by young professionals who know what the young people want.

It’s time to be stand up and be counted! Time to ensure the youth are catered for.

AWAAZ will be contacting youth organisations not just in Kirklees, but across West Yorkshire to ensure they all work together as a combined unit. No one is pointing the finger at anyone; we just want what is best for the future generation, regardless of race, creed or gender.