Ghetts urges young people to stand up and be counted

Underground grime artist Ghetts is calling for young people to stand up and be counted – by taking part in next year’s census.

The young artist’s views are based on the notion that the needs and interests of young people in the UK are ignored and that one way of making sure their voice is heard is to take part in the 2011 Census.

Talking about the new track Invisible, to be released by 360 Records, Ghetts said: “The point is that young people are the future. We’ve got to take every opportunity to get our views across so that we get the sort of communities that we want for our own kids.

“The census gives us a chance to shape the future of our neighbourhoods. It’s time to stand up and be counted.”

2011 Census spokesperson Helen Bray said: “The census is about understanding the needs of communities and planning for the future so that services and facilities can be provided for young people.

“Young people can feel that they can’t influence the future, but with the help of Ghetts we can encourage them to take one step towards making a real contribution to their communities.”

Ghetts will be performing his new track at youth centres and schools across London as well as visiting music colleges and community centres promoting his new release - and driving home his census message.

The census helps Government allocate resources to the areas that need them the most. The new track, Invisible, makes the point that people need to fill in and return the census questionnaire to make sure local and national authorities know where services such as transport, housing, hospitals, schools, community centres and libraries are needed for the future.