Youngsters in Keighley have been involved in planning a major new strategy to improve their lives over the next three years.

They were consulted by Bradford Council social services as it devised its ambitious Integrated Children's Services Plan.

The plan aims to bring council departments, health agencies and voluntary groups together to tackle "social exclusion" among youngsters.

Councillors believe that by supporting young people, they will help combat problems such as under-achievement, poor health and discrimination.

They have pledged to put the needs of individual children or young people first when considering action that will affect their lives.

Families will be involved whenever possible in planning services and understandable information will be given to help them make good choices.

The plan particularly focuses on children in need, including those being abused, bullied or neglected, misusing drugs, living in violent homes or excluded from school.

Priorities include disabilities, housing and homelessness, mental health, sexual health, disaffection and services for under-fives.

The plan also looks at children living away from home, young people leaving care, adoption, youth justice and youngsters who care for relatives.

The plan contains an analysis of who is in most need, looking at children's health, where they live, and trends among the youth population.

Councillors hope their services for young people will help contribute to the social and economic regeneration of the district.

Social services chairman Councillor Mike Young says Bradford's plan is nationally recognised for the way agencies work together and the involvement of young people.

He says: "The plan can make a real and lasting difference to the quality of children and young people's lives."

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