This Is Cheshire

Out to spice up school holidays

From the Guardian Series, first published Thursday 27th Feb 2003.

CONGLETON and Alsager teenagers are being targeted in a new boredom-busting initiative for the school holidays.

A summer programme of activities is being organised by the borough council for the 17,000 11 to 17-year-olds in the district.

The initiative is aimed in part at tackling the growing problem of rowdy behaviour among young people across the borough.

The council has secured money to launch and run the scheme, which will operate a membership subscription system.

The council is now seeking £500 from each town council in the borough to pay for publicity materials.

"The council and Cheshire Police's Communities Against Drugs action team are concerned, like many residents, with the increased reports of anti-social behaviour in the borough," said community officer Ross Podyma.

"There is no provision for young people between the ages of 11 and 17 during peak holiday periods to occupy their time.

"The youth service has traditionally reduced its service delivery during these periods, which has an impact on the community at large.

"To respond to the concerns of residents and young people the council is proposing to launch this summer a programme of activities which target young people most at risk of becoming isolated and bored.

"The programme is hoped to have a variety of activities and events which will stimulate and promote positive citizenship, as well as channelling creativity and energy."

The membership subscription will enable the scheme to be sustainable in the long-term.

A magazine is to be published listing the summer activities.

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