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Wed, 14/07/2010 - 09:58 | 
administrator
A new concept developed by young people and local agencies to set acceptable and responsible behaviour is to launch this month.
YouthSafe, to be piloted with the opening of the Soham Skatepark area, aims to create a safe haven for young people.
As long as the children and young people abide by the rules which they have helped to create, they will not be asked to be moved on by the Police or other agencies.
The YouthSafe rules are simple:
- Respect yourself, your space and your community
- Keep YouthSafe areas drug, alcohol and smoke free area
- Don't make unreasonable noise
- Keep YouthSafe areas clean
- For the new park young people are welcome on the park between 8.30am and 9pm - no one should hang out outside these times, and graffiti is welcome on designated boards only
Cllr Derrick Beckett said "The launch of 'YouthSafe' is an exciting concept which empowers young people giving them responsibility for their behaviour. We think the idea is an innovative approach to giving those who are soon to be adults more independence and confidence. We very much hope this project will be a success that we can replicate in other parts of the District."
Cllr Anne Pallett explained “Sunday 17 July is going to be a great day for Soham. We are showing through Youth Safe that there can be trust between agencies and our young people. Soham Town Council has been working towards getting a new skatepark for many years, and last year the District Council granted Soham Town Council funding to re-vamp the existing recreation ground play area and install a skatepark. With the help of additional funding from YouthSafe the Council were able to upgrade the skatepark to a quieter, longer-lasting, concrete skatepark. This was achieved with the help of young people who helped choose the design. During the last few months many people have put in a great deal of work to make this come to fruition. We hope that young people will use these facilities, feel safe and enjoy their environment for many years to come. Come and have fun on the 17th July."
The Skatepark opening event will begin at noon with the opening ceremony at 1pm, followed by BMX and skateboarding demonstrations.
For more information contact Cllr Anne Pallett on tel: 01353 721440 or by e-mailing: anne.pallett@yahoo.co.uk
ENDS
Notes for editors:
For further information contact Tony Taylorson in the Communications Team on 01223 699285.
