Do you produce a newspaper?
No.
If we had our own newspaper we wouldn't be able to reach such a wide range of people. As a news agency we can get our voices across in lots of different ways.
Why don’t you write for young people?
Headliners produces news by children for everyone.
By bringing young people's perspectives to broad-ranging issues, our articles are of intrinsic interest to other young people and refreshingly original for adult readers. We believe our members' work has most impact if their views sit alongside those of other adult 'authorities'.
How is Headliners different from other youth organisations?
Headliners has two distinct aims.
One is to get young voices in the mainstream press. This means real copy for real newspapers read by discerning adults. Our young people produce concrete outcomes to professional standards.
The second is to realise members' potential by encouraging them to think and act for themselves. The process of producing stories is key to their development. Young people don't just hang out at Headliners. They juggle the complexities faced by any working adult, and work hard in a supportive learning environment.
Which is more important - developing young people or publishing stories?
The two aims go hand in hand. One isn't possible without the other and staff act as facilitators in order to achieve both.
How do members take ownership of the programme?
Besides working on stories, members help run the organisation by:
- helping to realise new initiatives
- recruiting and training new members
- sitting on advisory committees with staff and trustees
- contributing to business planning
- suggesting how to improve and develop the programme
- promoting the programme
- helping with administration
- writing codes of conduct for members
- producing members' newsletters
- interviewing and shortlisting all staff
- We believe kids can do it!
Isn’t this just a programme for the brightest young people?
Everyone is welcome at Headliners, regardless of ability or background. The only requirement of new recruits is curiosity and an enthusiasm for getting involved.
Members take part as much or as little as they like, so they ease into the programme at their own pace. Different stages of development - whether due to age, primary language, literacy or confidence - present no barrier to the opportunities we offer as interviews and roundtables are recorded on tape. Peers and staff help individuals who need support.
