| The money will be used to fund recruitment and salary costs for a new full-time youth services manager and a part-time youth services administrator.
The project will use the popularity of the extreme sports offered at the skatepark to attract disadvantaged young people to a range of customised support services.
The scheme aims to offer 518 young people the chance to improve their lifestyles, education and general life skills and to boost their confidence and self-esteem.
It will deliver a health promotion and teen education programme, including a homework and ICT support group, as well as developing a life skills programme and a parental support group.
Operation director Derek Marshall said that the bid to the Big Lottery Fund has been a long process but with the announcement of the money it has been well worth the effort.
Over the last six months the skatepark has attracted 2500 youngsters who have signed up as users with a further 16-17,000 visitors, most of whom have been using the sports facilities.
However, the facility is now hoping to build on the success of the skatepark and develop the educational and social services.
“These facilities are all free and it’s about delivering a holistic service that is available for anyone if they wish,” said Mr Marshall. |
