Arts activities offer powerful ways to engage young people in discussing local issues, enable them to influence change, and encouraging them to take ownership and responsibility.  Loca runs creative programmes which get young people positively involved in initiatives happening in their communities and give them a 'language' with which to voice their views, ideas and needs.  Opportunities to work with professional artists also offer young people new skills and experiences leading to a sense of personal achievement, not to mention enjoyment and fun.     in Huddersfield young people were involved in influencing Queensgate II, a major town centre scheme to re-develop a shopping precinct, relocate the library and art gallery and improve the public realm.  Artists worked with school children and architecture students from Huddersfield University to develop ideas for the inclusion of public art within the scheme.     recent neighbourhood projects have got children and young people involved in designing decorative fencing panels, seating, entrance features and sculptures as part of streetscape, environmental, park and nature reserve improvement schemes. A significant new area of work was kick-started with funding from Children's Fund Kirklees in 2006, and is now being further developed with funding from NHS Kirklees.  Inside Me uses arts-based and creative activities to work with children on emotional intelligence and well-being, in schools located within some of Kirklees' most disadvantaged communities.  The programme is delivering emotional health impacts for children and professional development benefits for school staff.  Loca supports similar work in Chickenley School, Dewsbury, through our association with the Roots & Wings project.