Chief executive of Action4Youth Lynda Cockerell has said if people want to create a facility for young people where they live their organisation is there to support them.

"Sometimes people are frightened to start a youth club but with the right help we can offer, it can be really successful," she said.

"Youth services have a key part to play and the voluntary youth network is huge, but you've also got to get people to commit to it. You have got to have that person who will give up their time and that's where Action4Youth comes in."

She said Corrina Pierce, who used their services to set up Fairford Leys Youth Club in May, is an example of a dedicated youth worker.

"That youth group will work because she's the drive behind it."

The club runs every Friday evening during term time. Miss Pierce explained how the charity helps her.

"Action4Youth gives supportive help and practical help, but they don't take over at all.

"When the need for a youth group was identified by the parish council in this community and the age group was identified I went to them straight off and said 'where do I go from here?'

"They identified the legalities, health and safety, child protection, first aid, insurance and what level of insurance. You pay an affiliation fee of £55 a year and for that you are supported by them and your volunteers can get access to courses."

"There is just so much they do, they have a programme of ideas for the club. Young people have so much to do, if only people knew about it."
At their club the boys play football, the girls do each other's hair and nails, they play tennis, pool and air hockey.

She said there was no need to be frightened about setting up a club. "I would really say to anybody who thinks there's a need to give it a go because you get so much more back from it than you realise and there's so much help available.

"Have a committed group of people – it doesn't matter how small, as long as they are committed - try to get some parish or council backing because funding is key and Action4Youth will give you the tools to do it."

She said they are always in need of volunteers. For more information call Miss Pierce on 07834 739127.

Anyone who wants to set up a group can contact Action4Youth on 01296 631319 or email office@action4youth.

Do you already help young people and want to tell us about?

To comment on this or any other Bucks Herald story, click here.

To post comments directly on this website, click on the Comment on this Story link below