Ben, a 16-year-old resident of Kingswood, expressed his frustration with the lack of places for young people in the area. He mentioned that he spends most of his time at home, interacting online, as there are limited options for socializing in Kingswood. His mother, Lorraine, echoed his sentiments, emphasizing the importance of having safe spaces for young people to gather and socialize.
Youth services in Kingswood have been impacted by national cuts, leading to a decrease in resources available to young people. However, there is hope for improvement with the recent funding injection from the town council. The council has allocated a significant portion of its budget to enhance services for young people, aiming to create a safer and more engaging environment for them.
One of the initiatives funded by the council is the introduction of a ‘youth bus’, which will serve as a mobile space for youth work sessions. This innovative approach will provide young people with a supervised area to gather and interact, addressing the need for safe social spaces in Kingswood.
Additionally, the funding will support the recruitment of specialized workers, including a lead youth worker and a youth wellbeing practitioner. These professionals will focus on providing mental health support and outreach to young people in the community. By offering one-to-one support and access to trusted adults, the youth services aim to address the underlying issues faced by young people and create a supportive environment for them.
Looking ahead, there are plans to establish a dedicated youth center in Kingswood, providing a permanent space for young people to engage in activities and receive guidance. The involvement of local young people in shaping this space highlights the community-driven approach to youth services in the area.
Overall, the increased funding for youth services in Kingswood represents a positive step towards addressing the needs of young people and creating a more inclusive and supportive community. By investing in resources and specialized workers, the town council aims to make a significant impact on the lives of young residents in Kingswood.