Oral History with Earl Nanton

00:00 Gives name and describes identity

0.31 Been working in Stockport since 2007, worked for Stockport Youth Service

1.17 Earl describes his first years in Stockport being ‘very white’

2:38 Works with young people, finding them hobbies and activities that boost well- being in a positive way, i.e. activities like cooking and football

4:32 Young people are referred to by a case manager, he explains that in some cases he is successful and in others he may not be as successful with individuals due to a variety of factors. He emphasises that it is easier to see change in a young person when working with them for a pre longed amount of time.

8:53 Earl notes that he is able to see individuals minds and feelings changing as a result of the project, he enjoys the ‘residential’ trips which takes the young people involved ‘out of the comfort zone’ in order to enhance learning.

10:12 When Earl started out he was met with young people who enjoyed rapping, he helped them explore lyricism with ‘bars’ which stepped away from revolving around violence and money to looking at themes like

13:13 Found that individuals were bored young people, rather than ‘bad people’

14:02 Essential to build up trust

14:38 The importance of introducing young people to black history, making people aware of those who have made a significant contribution to society.

16:48 Benefits of learning about Black History to enhance understanding and ‘open people’s eyes

19:38 Tries to focus on positive energy; can experience ‘complex issues’’ however it’s important to utilise understanding when working with people

21:14 Earl recognises that the young people that he works with lack a male role model in their lives

22:08 Without a role model, many find themselves on the road. Earl was inspired by the ‘Boys to Men’ project which teaches life skills and allows young people to be creative.

26:44 In regards to the Black Lives Matter movement, there is a need to demand action and change.

30:06 Need for a sense of togetherness and unity within the community.

31:24 Need to build a culture of ‘being active’

32:22 Importance of discipline, ‘discipline is discipline’

32:45 The law is the law, importance of keeping it strict

34:32 Pandemic has given the space to reflect however it has made seeing the young people difficult

35:18 Pie Radio is a ‘young people friendly space’, a community which welcomes all. There isn’t a youth space like it within the Stockport community. Engaging and inspiring.

37:37 Working with Young People is about stimulating knowledge and interest

41:22 Can not cherry pick in your role as a Youth Worker