Abstract
Evolutionary systems theory is widely accepted as the organising principle for life sciences. In more recent years it has also been applied to economics, culture, language, and leadership. In this paper we argue that services for young people need to evolve from deficit discourses to asset-based practices. The argument for asset-based work with young people will be presented through the lens of one organisation, the Foyer Federation who were developing asset-based service design. The findings of a systematic literature review are presented to demonstrate the scope and impact of current asset-based initiatives globally. The assumptions and activities of deficit and asset-based approaches are contrasted with use of cultural-historical activity theory. These findings are synthesised with the developmental work of the Foyer Federation to explicate the philosophy and practice of asset-based work with young people. The findings and implications are drawn out to inform others practice and research.
Highlights
There is evidence to suggest the current model of welfare in the UK isn’t working
Case study part 1: The Foyer Federation context before asset-based practice The Foyer’s were originally designed for young people not living at home and for whom hostel type service would not provide the access to learning and employability required
Evidence has been presented that the current way of planning services and the current discourses surrounding young people may not enable them to self-realise
Summary
Kaz Stuart is Principal Lecturer in the Department of Health, Psychology and Social Science at the University of Cumbria leading undergraduate and postgraduate work in youth and community work, mental health, cognitive behaviour therapy and work with children, young people and families. As associate professor for Child, Adolescent and Family Studies Kaz supports interdisciplinary practice based research within and between organisations and promotes the use of socially just research methods. Kaz has a keen interest in evidencing the impact of youth work in ways that contribute to the young person as much as the organisation supporting them and works closely with the Centre for Youth Impact. Kaz has a wide professional background including primary, secondary and higher education teaching, youth work, social care, outdoor education, and research all as a practitioner, manager and leader
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