Last year’s Make Poverty History campaign has had a massive impact on young people, says a survey conducted by Oxfam.
The survey of more than 1,400 16- to 25-year-olds found that two-thirds plan to get involved with charities in some way in 2006.
40% of 18 to 29-year-olds made donations to charity, compared to one in four overall, again suggesting a greater interest among young people.
Make Poverty History had a bigger impact on young people than the general election and the London Olympic victory, the survey found, but over half admitted uncertainty about what happens next.
Oxfam claims this “dispels myths of a ‘slacker generation’” and shows that the youth of today are committed to helping those in need.
Liz Leaver, Youth Coordinator for Oxfam, said: “It is now up to charities to help translate that desire into positive action.”
The Make Poverty History campaign was supported by many student groups in Cardiff, and many groups offer opportunities for students to get involved in fighting poverty, including People and Planet, Speak and Save the Children.
Ben Read, President of the Cardiff Speak group, said: “Make Poverty History has made a big impact… but there’s still much to do and hopefully the momentum will continue.”
The World Development Movement is holding a meeting titled “Make Poverty History: So where next?” on Monday February 27 at 7.30pm in the Temple of Peace, Cardiff.
The survey was conducted by Oxfam’s youth website, Generation Why, during January 2006. Full details are available at www.oxfam.org.uk/generationwhy/.>
