The In Defence of Youth Work steering group is deeply perturbed at the news that one of its members, Michael ‘Don’ Macdonald, was arrested in the aftermath of the vibrant Save our Services Rally in Newcastle. In a sensationalist report in the local Evening Chronicle it is claimed that Don threatened Nick Forbes, the Leader of the Council, subjecting him to a tirade of abuse. All the evidence is to the contrary. Don, a youth worker in the city, is fighting the charge and has our fullest support. For a much more detailed account of what’s been happening, go to:

What is the Right to Challenge Cuts campaign?

Statement from Michael ‘Don’ MacDonald

Statement from Save Our Services, of which IDYW is a member, which begins,

It is with regret that the Save Our Services (SOS) campaign group finds itself in a position whereby it is necessary to defend the actions of one of its members. We believe this necessary not just with regard to the reputation of the member involved, but also in respect of the implications this situation creates regarding public protest and freedom of expression in Newcastle.