can i ask teenagers

[copperascove]

i am writing a short story about teenagers and drinking and substance abuse. is it legal for me to ask them on the street, mcdonalds park, whereever they hang out.
need answers quick please

[Buenchico]

It's perfectly legal to ask anyone a question, irrespective of their age or location, as long as you avoid such things as harassment.

However the owners of private property have the right to exercise controls over what happens on their premises, so you'd need permission from the property owners if you were to ask questions other than in the street (or another public place).

In these times of collective paranoia it might be wisest to speak to the local community constable first, in order to avoid any misunderstandings about your motives, but it's not a legal requirement.

Chris

[tamborine]

Its okay to ask......be careful though.

[Suzyboo]

Why do you need to ask them in person? Asking online is more anonymous and may lead to more honesty, as well as being less creepy than accosting teenagers that you don't know.

[PeelerPal]

Yes it is fine to approach anybody and ask them a question, however it is extremely important that if you ask any personal information, i.e name and address, you must get specific permission from that person to publish their details, if you are using any recording equipment i.e video camera, digital dictation etc or a standard camera it is again imperative that the parties that you film/record etc are aware of what you are doing and give you full permission to use and/or distribuite any information that they give you. I would suggest that you write up a request form which you should get every individual to sign before you start any process of interviewing, this will protect you legally. Hope this helps

[PeelerPal]

Oh just one thing, if the person you interview is under the age of 16 it is an offence to publish any details about them even if you have a permission as they are minors and would need parental consent so thei identity would need to be completely concealed. And should the majority of them be under the age of 18, the chances are they will not want their identity revealed as they are breaking the law so thare are lots of things for you to consider!

[Spoiled33]

hey copper why dont you ask a local youth club to be involved or tag along with out reach workers, if you contact your local community education , youth services or (and give me a min to find the link ) you can do the whole thing with full permission

[tamborine]

You should ask OAPs they're the worst at substance abuse....check their handbags & pockets - full of uppers & downers.

[Ice.Maiden]

Lol!!!

[Spoiled33]

ok b ee nice to them they are local to me :)

http://www.bebo.com/Profile.jsp?MemberId=27726 06607


they can give you info on youth clubs/ groups/ comm ed/ ect close to you but please bare in mind this is a youth forum!!! possible what you need to know is the contact details of a youth worker in your area and be prepared for lots of questions but if you are willing to teach .....and your clean per say .......good luckxxx

[tamborine]

at least they wont give you a 'smack in the chops'.