New Fund for teenagers

4.33.00pm GMT Tue 25th Mar 2003

Local youth groups are being urged to apply for grants for teenager's activity groups. Vincent Cable, MP, has written to local organisations encouraging them to apply for grants of up to £15,000 designed to create a network of clubs for 11 to 16 year olds after school and in school holidays.

The Make Space Development Fund is being financed by Nestle and the child care charity, Kids Club Network and details are available on www.makespace.org.uk or 020 7522 6960 or email

information@makespace.org.uk.

Vincent Cable said: "there is an acute shortage of facilities where young people can meet safely and occupy themselves constructively. "

"That is one reason why areas like Hampton, Hampton Hill and Whitton have persistent problems with young people hanging around on the streets and engaging in vandalism and graffiti often they are not looking for fancy facilities but a safe, warm, indoor meeting place. "

"I hope this fund can make a contribution.