This report reveals the importance of youth having access to public space and identifies continuing barriers that youth face when they attempt to access space. “The importance of belonging is a fundamental need for all of us,” says Irwin Elman, Provincial Advocate for Children and Youth, “We know that safe spaces are crucial in meeting that need for young people. I am troubled by the lack of access to these spaces in Toronto and across the Province.” Youth use space in a number of ways. Space is critical to the development of youth-led enterprises and to run extracurricular activities. It is where young people can spend time with friends, develop skills or access services. It is used to nurture artistic creativity and innovation. “It all begins with space – you can’t run programs, start businesses or spend time with friends without an accessible, welcoming and affordable space. The provincial government’s commitment to community access to schools has made great improvements in allowing community groups to use space in schools,” says Susan Fletcher, Chair of the SPACE Coalition. “However, youth in our communities continue to experience particular challenges in accessing space in schools, recreation centres and other community facilities.” Policies, procedures and attitudes directed toward young people and access to space directly impact how “welcome” or “safe” youth feel, as well as what they are capable of creating. The SPACE Coalition report includes a number of recommendations aimed at improving these access issues facing so many young people. Solving this problem will require leadership at the provincial and municipal levels and will also require listening and engaging with youth advisors to ensure that community space is opened up to enhance their opportunities for growth and development. “While the many benefits that result from community use of public spaces are well documented, youth organizations struggle to access affordable space to create environments where they feel included,” says John Campey, Executive Director of Social Planning Toronto. “Yet when you do invest in young people and space the possibilities of what they can create are extraordinary.”
