Petition Voluntary Work compulsory in schools

Recent research states many young people now feel as if they "have nothing to live for". Youth unemployment is currently at an all-time low, with consequences such as increased violence, crime and mental health issues.

What I propose is compulsory supervised voluntary work for children in schools. Benefits include:

1) Young people get a stronger sense of self-worth.

2) The work will enable young people to be more employable. The diversity of voluntary schemes means that each student will have different skills and experiences.

3) Reduced youth boredom with a choice of several projects or schemes (examples include planting/cultivating crops for the community or creating fundraisers such as charity gigs). A change of environment from the standard classroom setting will be seen as fun and exciting.

4) Children learn the importance of compassion and kindness in 'follow-up' sessions involving explanations of how their work is benefiting society.