Derbyshire: Extra spending to boost youth work

Youth services in Derbyshire are to get an extra £250,000 a year as part of plans to retain the service and target help where it is needed most.

Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet agreed to a new vision for the youth service last week and detailed where the extra money will be spent.

The additional cash includes allocating £69,250 to Bolsover and North East Derbyshire.

Councillor Kevin Gillott, cabinet member for children and young people, said: “By putting in these extra resources, we’re keeping our pledge to rebuild the youth service and help the most vulnerable young people in Derbyshire.”

“And although we’re facing massive cuts to our budget from central government, we’ve managed to channel money we saved by doing things differently back into the service so that it can be spent on supporting activities for young people.”

The extra funding is part of the authority’s plans to avoid the widespread closure of the service so that it can offer more activities for young people.

The county council will now consult with staff and the trade unions about proposals to better serve young people’s needs.

Coun Gillott added: “We’ve listened to what young people told us and have responded to them.”

“We’re passionate about working closely with youngsters and helping improve their lives.”

“Our youth workers are highly skilled and experienced in supporting young people, especially those that are vulnerable, so they have every chance to do well in life.”