The Civic Journey
A two-year programme, led by young people, to support and inspire sustained engagement in social action, community activism, and entrepreneurial spirit across the UK.
In 2020, the Institute for Community Studies’ Safety in Numbers? report found that supporting better pathways for young people was the most agreed upon priority for communities across the UK. This research found young people aged 16 to 30 wanted routes to take action in their communities and ways to shape positive change in society, but the majority felt they lacked the entry points, infrastructure, support and resources to do so.
About the programme
The Civic Journey is a two-year, youth-led project, exploring young people’s transition from adolescence to active citizenship. Focused on 16- to 30-year-olds, the programme looks at changes in individuals’ position, role and relationship with their wider community, and seeks to understand both what young people want to do for their community – and how communities, local ecosystems and national policy can support them in return.
Read more
Research
The Civic Journey: introducing the idea
Professor Matt Flinders introduce the concepts that underpin the Civic Journey programme, supported by an accompanying discussion paper.
The Civic Journey: Summary of emerging findings
Emerging findings from our youth-led programme, inspiring engagement in social action, community activism and democratic participation across the UK.
Navigating the ‘postcode lottery’ of volunteering opportunities
Lack of opportunity, patchy citizenship education, and an outdated view of why young people engage hinder volunteering, finds a new report.
'Speaking truth to power'
What support do young people have on their journey to becoming active citizens?
'Support is like a roadmap'
Sharing experiences of life around the UK – and hopes for the future.
Reflections
‘A human-centred approach in an uncertain world’
Young people need ‘pragmatic and solution-orientated design-thinking’ as they develop skills, knowledge and behaviour on their Civic Journeys, says Professor Matt Flinders
1/4
‘Young people need “social scaffolding” to reach their full potential’
When thinking about support for the challenges young people face, Professor Matt Flinders says it’s right to use the language of access and growth.
2/4
‘Let’s seize the optimism of this moment’
Advisory Board member Page Nyame-Satterthwaite reflects on her recent visit to Parliament to discuss the youth-led Civic Journey programme.
3/4
‘It is time to connect the “civic journey” for our resilient generation’
Dr Andy Mycock says empowering young people to become life-long engaged, active citizens must be a key ambition for any democratic society.
4/4
Learning from diverse experiences
Our 2023 call for evidence welcomed insights and examples of best practice supporting young people to develop as active and empowered citizens.
Meet the team
The Civic Journey project is jointly led by staff at the Institute for Community Studies, together with an Advisory Board of 16- to 30-year-olds from around the UK. The programme is also directed by six Community Engagement Coordinators and a Steering Group of experts that share an interest in character development, citizenship and evidence-based policymaking.
Meet the team