Junior Minister Kelly attends launch of £500,000 North Belfast Youth Project
Sinn Féin Junior Minister Gerry Kelly MLA today attended the launch of a new youth initiative in north Belfast.
The Big Lottery Fund awarded £499,723 to the Cliftonville Community Regeneration Forum for four years through the Reaching Communities Grant. "Let Youth Lead" is the name given to this initiative by young people from the Cliftonville / Cavehill and Antrim Road areas.
At the launch in the Crumlin Road Gaol, which was also attended by local Olympic boxing hero, Paddy Barnes, Junior Minister Kelly said:
"I want to congratulate Cliftonville Community Regeneration Forum for their hard work and determination in drawing down such a significant funding package. This project will undoubtedly help to sustain and grow youth services in the local area.
"This project aims to develop the youth infrastructure and to provide young people with the skills and opportunities to become a major asset to this community." ENDS
Notes to Editors
The funding has allowed new youth workers to be employed in the area. Through the project young people will have the opportunity to become involved in the decision making process and management of youth provision.
Existing youth staff and young people will work together to develop the youth provision that is needed in their area. This money will also pay for a diverse range of training and personal development courses. This training will offer young people the opportunity for new experiences, and help them discover their talents, skills and interests.