The Network is aiming to open 3,000 Make Space clubs by 2015 to bridge a gap in provision for 11-to 16-year-olds. The clubs will give them somewhere safe to go after school, and offer a range of activities, including sport, music and the arts.
Networkchief executive Anne Longfield said, 'Our research shows that six out of ten teenagers and eight out of ten parents think that there is not enough for young people to do in the area where they live. We want Make Space to build on the best of current provision for young people both inside and outside schools, developing clubs across the country where the needs of young people are not being met, where there is nothing for them to do and nowhere to go after school or throughout the school holidays.'
Schools, clubs and youth organisations wanting to set up a club can apply for grants of up to 15,000 over two years from the Make Space development fund. Money will be awarded on the basis of how the project fits the Make Space guidelines, drawn up in consultation with teenagers who suggested how they could be run and what activities and opportunities they should offer.
Prime minister Tony Blair has backed the Make Space project as part of the Government's drive to tackle the problems of youth crime and anti-social behaviour, much of which is blamed on boredom. Mr Blair said the Government would continue to work with schools and the voluntary sector to offer more opportunities for young people.
The Kids' Clubs Networkcampaign is sponsored by the Nestle Trust. For more details either visit the website www.makespace.org.ukor phone the helpline on 020 7522 6960.
