The need for a youth centre in Xgħajra : young people’s views and expectations

Abstract

A youth centre caters to young people's wants and needs. It offers a safe space where young people can be empowered to become active citizens and where young people are recognised as a social force capable of generating change. Youth workers support and facilitate the young people’s participation in non-formal activities and actively involve them in activities. This study identifies the wants and needs of the young people in Xgħajra and their response to the setting up of a youth centre in this small and developing community. It strives to get a better understanding of the young people’s expectations and analyse how this youth centre will cater for their wants and needs. The collection of data was organised through semi-structured interviews conducted with eight young people who had received their Holy Confirmation the previous year in Xgħajra. The age bracket set out for this study was between 13 and 15. The responses were categorised according to the questions set in the interview and sectioned into three themes: the infrastructural design and resources, its leadership and its policies and programme of activities. The general overview of the youth centre was taken into consideration at the beginning of each interview and was also analysed. The results emerging from this study show that the village of Xgħajra needs a youth centre to cater for the holistic needs of its young people. The study further illustrates that young people can lead the youth centre with the presence of a youth worker who guides them and supports them. Apart from the need for a youth centre, in Xgħajra there is also a huge need for sports and recreational (green) areas. A transdisciplinary approach and collaboration with entities such as the local council will benefit both the young people and the community of Xgħajra.