Tony Blair should avoid patronising young people if they are stay part of the political process, according to a new report.

The Youth Voting Network (YVN) recommended that young people should be given greater access to their MPs at local youth events, while politicians should visit schools and youth groups between election campaigns.

The report's authors argue that ministers should avoid using youth events as media opportunities, and should explain themselves properly without patronising young constituents.

In addition, more younger candidates should be selected to contest seats, the report argued, to better represent the diversity of young people.

"While some good work is underway, more effort is needed by those heading the political process if young people are to feel they have a genuine stake in society," said Louise King of the Children's Rights Alliance for England, one of the organisations involved in the YVN.

"It is not apathy that keeps youngsters away from party politics, but feelings of disengagement, and a lack of belief that their views will be listened to, respected and acted upon."

The call came as the Institute for Citizenship launched a national campaign, supported by the Electoral Commission, aimed at improving voter turnout at next year's elections to the European parliament and London assembly.

"We need to make voters understand that the European parliament, the London assembly, London mayor and local authorities make far-reaching decisions that impact on their day-to-day lives," said Gavin Hayes, the campaign's project manager.

"Politicians also need to start talking much more vigorously about the issues that matter to people on the ground, and challenge the perception of the electorate that they are a distant elite."