A YOUTH group that fell apart after Durham County Council withdrew funding is back up and running with a whole new space to relax in.
The group, which would meet weekly at Utass (Upper Teesdale Agricultural Support Services) in Middleton-in-Teesdale, closed when cash for youth workers was withdrawn last year.
But now thanks to a new pot of money from Teesdale Action Partnership, and with help from Police and Crime Commissioner Ron Hogg, the teenagers are back together for at least the next year.
The cash has allowed for the return of youth sessional worker Andy Robinson, along with former Teesdale School youth worker Eve Galloway to run weekly sessions for young people aged between 12 and 19. Not only are they back, but a former derelict space upstairs in the Utass building has been refurbished into a lounge for them to “chill out” in.
Ms Galloway said: “There was a period when the older ones were not catered for, so there has been a lull but we are slowly getting them back. Ron Hogg came to visit to see what was going on in the patch and was very impressed with the work Utass is doing for young people.”
She added that he contacted with the NHS and helped arrange for a £13,900 grant from its Improving Places of Safety fund.
The room was cleaned out, painted and new carpets were fitted.
A large screen television and other equipment were also added.
Mr Galloway said: “We really want it shaped by them, even what they want to put on the walls.”
Youth group member Henry Johnston said: “It is really great, all the older ones can separate from the younger ones. It is nice to have somewhere to sit.”
Mr Hogg added: “The youth provision which Utass provide is excellent.
“I have visited several times and you can really see the difference it makes to the young people. This newly refurbished space will be an excellent addition for the older age group, as it will provide a safe and stimulating environment where they can relax and participate in activities.
“I am really looking forward to visiting the new space and meeting with the young people.”
Tariq Imam, of the Northern Heartlands project, visited the group during a Utass session on Thursday, May 3, looking to drum up support and meet the young people.
Northern Heartlands is working with young people from Weardale to create a performance called Trapped, based on the experience of Chilean miners who became stuck underground a few years ago.
It is hoped the Utass youth group will also become involved.
