RMP : reviewing Maltese practice : the impact of government youth services in Malta

Abstract

The aim of this research is to review service given at the Youth Empowerment Centres (YECs) in Malta to possibly measure their success and their impact on young people. The idea which led to this research was the concern for lack of empirical studies in relation to youth work practice on a local level - a factor that hinders the development of professional youth work and youth services in Malta. Literature accompanying this study highlights the trajectory which led to the establishment of youth service, and a discussion which explores youth needs as the outset of such a service. Whilst the latter traces the progression of youth service through time, data collected through evaluative case studies investigates and focuses on the worth of youth service currently rendered in Malta. The outcome of this research should be of interest to anybody directly involved in rendering youth service as well as to policy makers. Besides being an appraisal and dissemination of good practice, this study highlights aspects in youth service which need further development. The involvement of young people during the investigative phase is an opportunity for them to voice their queries and suggestions, thus being actively involved in the process and measures needed to further develop youth service in Malta.