Barnardo's says youngsters are increasingly politically conscious

Barnardo's, in a report presented to Children's Minister Margaret Hodge on Tuesday, disputes the idea that young people are "politically apathetic".

It says many hold strong views on issues from drugs to the environment and they deserve a louder voice.

The charity took the views of more than 130 six- to 22-year-olds for its study.

Pat Thompson, of Barnardo's, said the report - Give us a Chance - showed young people had "powerful views".

She said she wanted ministers to review the voting age and discuss lowering it to 16.

Can we have more police on the streets - real ones not wardens Unnamed 17 year old from London

Mrs Thompson, who is the parliamentary adviser with Barnardo's, said: "All too often young people are presented as disinterested in politics, as apathetic to decisions and decision making.

"The young people we work with are among the most disadvantaged, yet they have powerful views that are both considered and reasonable."

The suggestions put forward by young people in the report include the provision of better accommodation for homeless young people, rather than hostels.

There were also calls for more work in schools to tackle bullying and the view that expulsion is not effective in preventing bad behaviour.

Political knowledge

The youngsters who contributed to the report were taken from across the UK and covered a wide range of subjects.

A 14 year old from Belfast is quoted in the report as saying: "Social services need to listen more - actually take in what the child says not twist it."

A 17-year-old Londoner said: "Can we have more police on the streets - real ones not wardens."

Barnardo's is marking the centenary of the death of its founder, Dr Thomas Barnardo, with a series of events aimed at outlining its work with children.