ABSTRACT
Although the places in which informal education work with girls and young women occurs do change, with marked shifts as a consequence of the Conservative and subsequent New Labour restructuring of local education authorities, it is important to begin by recognising the role of a tiny department within most LEAs known as ‘The Youth Service’. The work of Youth Services developed in partnership with voluntary organisations such as the Young Women’s Christian Association (now called Platform 51) and the Girls’ Friendly Society, which have the promotion of the welfare of girls and young women as a major aim. There has also been a connected partnership with the uniformed voluntary organisations such as the ‘Guides’ and other faith-based organisations.
