ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews some approaches that local authorities can take to help create the secure, stimulating communities that promote children's rights. It discusses the effectiveness of participatory educational efforts with youth for dealing with a range of risky behaviours. The Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC) stresses the importance to children and adolescents of safe, supportive neighbourhoods. The chapter describes methods for gaining maximum use of limited space. In the United States and Britain, observers have noted that children are increasingly restricted in their access to spontaneous neighbourhood play. Children and women are most vulnerable to harassment and violence, especially domestic violence; but may find formal systems impenetrable. School authorities should be encouraged to make school grounds available outside of school hours. When children and adolescents live in violent households and communities, they need people and places that they can turn to for relief.
