Accompaniment at the centre of local youth policies

Abstract

This article outlines the objectives and content of the publication titled A Manual for Creating Support Programs for Adolescents and Young People in Local Administration, developed by the Youth Chair at the University of València. The guide aims to facilitate the transition from traditional youth policies based on a "detected needs-services" model to a paradigm of socio-educational support. It is structured as a user manual, with thematic units, exercises, gamified activities, summary tables, and illustrations. The key elements of the needs-services model are analyzed and contrasted with those of the support paradigm to encourage critical reflection that professionals may apply to their own programs. The guide offers new orientations: (1) Reframing the needs of adolescents and young people: These are categorized into universal needs (common to all, such as identity formation, developmental tasks, and access to rights) and material needs (specific needs that affect certain groups or sectors differently). (2) Restructuring local youth programs: Programs are centered on the educational relationship, where services and activities act as resources supporting educational roles but do not carry intrinsic weight. (3) Emphasizing territory and community: It highlights the importance of the local community and proposes a new role for youth departments as facilitators of resource networks that benefit young people. (4) Shifting from a risk-and-deficit approach: The guide advocates for a focus on optimal development, viewing educational action as providing nurturing rather than compensating for deficiencies. The guide includes a detailed methodological proposal for the transition, incorporating a comprehensive evaluation system and internal marketing strategies.