News

LOCAL YOUNGSTERS TO HAVE MORE SAY

More than 1,000 young people from across the district are expected to attend the official launch of the Shepway Youth Forum o­n 1 July.

The launch heralds a major milestone for the Forum that was set up in September to give young people between the ages of 11 and 19 a voice and an opportunity to influence what is happening around them.

The event, at the Leas Cliff Hall, Folkestone, includes more than 30 exhibition stands presented by organisations ranging from scout groups and youth clubs to training providers.

Youngsters will also be able to take part in a series of workshops covering careers, health, sport, Folkestone’s regeneration, crime and art and design. All young people who attend the launch will also be invited to a free evening gig by local groups, Kingsksin, Dead Next Door and DJ Ben Reed.

Kaushal Niraula, chairperson of the Shepway Youth Forum, said there were currently 45 members and he hoped the official launch would swell numbers.

“We want to increase membership so that the Forum can represent the views of as many young people as possible. All secondary schools have been invited to the launch but any young person up to the age of 19 is welcome, whether they attend school or not. We have been working o­n the event since before Christmas and are very proud that our efforts are coming together. We hope the day will be successful.â€?

“Forum members already have regular meetings with councillors and give us their views o­n decisions that affect young people. It’s just o­ne of the things the Forum has established since it was set up in September.

The launch is supported by Kent County Council, Kent Police, the Creative Foundation, the Leas Cliff Hall, South Kent College and the Roger De Haan Charitable Trust.