Money up for grabs for young people
Almost £500,000 is available for young people across Warwickshire as part of the Youth Opportunity Fund.
The grants can be used to improve facilities and activities in Warwickshire - and the youngsters will get to choose who should benefit.
Warwickshire County Council has been given the money to increase the opportunities available for young people and encourage their involvement and participation in local communities.
The fund is a DCSF initiative operated through Warwickshire County Council’s Children, Young People and Families Directorate.
Individuals and groups are invited to bid for grants for youth projects, schemes or facilities they would like to develop.
Last year the fund was used to help a number of projects including setting up a local broadband radio station, kitting out a voluntary youth club, and building a BMX track to help keep young people occupied. But there are many more possibilities for those who want to put forward their ideas and make them a reality.
A panel of fifty young people in Warwickshire – supported by youth workers - are involved as decision makers, grant givers and project leaders for the fund. Last year, the Government Office for the West Midlands gave the Warwickshire panel of young people an ‘Outstanding Contribution’ award in recognition of their ability to make a difference through the fund.
Councillor Izzi Seccombe, portfolio holder for Children, Young People and Families, said: “The success of the fund shows what can be achieved by young people for young people. Since the introduction of the fund in 2006 Warwickshire has spent £988,000 on 215 projects.”
“We are incredibly proud of the work done through this scheme and we are asking voluntary organisations and youth clubs to encourage the young people that they work with, especially the hardest to reach, to come forward with their ideas.”
Application packs are available by calling Warwickshire County Council on 01926 742498.