Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Ellis visited Bentilee Youth Centre this week to see first-hand how youngsters in Stoke-on-Trent are spending their school holidays.
Mr Ellis has provided over £4,000 to the Stoke-on-Trent City Council summer scheme who have arranged a calendar of free events across the City during the school summer holidays. Events include mountain biking, arts and crafts and archery.
Bentilee Youth Centre is open on Thursday and Friday evenings for young people aged 11 to 19, and Wednesday evenings for young people aged nine to 12, called Bentilee Juniors. The Centre is also open on Tuesday evenings for young people aged between 11 and 25 with learning difficulties and disabilities. The Youth centre is a place for young people to go to learn new life skills such as cooking.
Mr Ellis said: “I’ve really enjoyed this visit to Bentilee, there’s so much her for young people to do. I can see how this service is making a real difference to young people in the area.
“I can see much of the success of this scheme is down to the enthusiasm and energy of the staff and volunteers that run it. Their contribution is remarkable.”
Councillor Joy Garner, Stoke-on-Trent City Council cabinet member for housing, neighbourhoods and community safety, said: “We are pleased to receive this financial contribution, which we have match-funded to provide a range of activities for young people across the city during the summer months. This is in addition to the £53,000 investment we make to provide youth services in Bentilee.
“Bentilee Youth Centre is an excellent facility which is run by a dedicated team of staff and volunteers four times a week, providing a much-needed service to the young people in the area.
“In addition, the Bentilee Juniors project has given an opportunity for young people to volunteer as youth workers. Managed and mentored, they gain skills that will stand them in good stead to acquire new opportunities and gain future employment.”
For more information about Bentilee Youth Centre contact Andrew Johnston by emailing Andrew.johnston@stoke.gov.uk
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