Youth in War-time
The growth of juvenile crime was one of the most sinister social features of the last war, and the problem has remained in the years of peace from then to now. It is unfortunate that during the transition to war conditions during the last month many institutions for juvenile welfare have ceased to function—in some cases boys' and girls' clubs have been commandeered, and workers have been taken away to civil defence duties. And yet it is precisely at a moment of excitement and partial disorganisation such as the present that everything possible ought to be done to maintain social services for young people. Happily the Government has recognised the need, and the President of the Board of Education has appointed an expert committee to advise on problems of juvenile welfare, and a special welfare branch has been set up at the Board to deal with the work of organi- sation. To make this effective the help of local authorities and voluntary workers will be indispensable. Here is work to be done which may well be regarded as a part of civil defence.
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