What Young People Want

A recent household survey revealed that local people thought that there was little for young people to do in Poulton.

Over the last few months Poulton Neighbourhood Management have been investigating ways of filling the gap.

In October a youth conference took place with local organisations, service providers and young people from the Morecambe Foyer and pupils from Morecambe High School.

First of all, a list of things that are currently on offer to young people was constructed to identify where the gaps might be. Those taking part were quite surprised about the decent amount of activities that are already taking place, but thought that they may be under used or that young people may have difficulties in accessing the services that are already available.

They were then asked to provide a range of solutions with limited funds and with unlimited funds.

A number of ideas came out of the youth conference such as:

• A cafe/juice bar which would open in the evenings and could also incorporate music and DJ nights.
• A gym or relaxation zone.
• Reduced rates on public transport for families and young people.
• Out of hours counselling service
• Multi use games area at Morecambe Bay Primary School (open to community outside of school opening times)
• Youth pub (no alcohol)
• Parenting support groups

Some ideas that were suggested but discarded included:

• Swimming pool
• Ice rink

Taking forward the ideas that came about from the Youth Conference, the team from Poulton Neighbourhood Management spent a day during the October half term, in the Arndale Centre to canvass young people’s opinions.

The response from local young people showed that the top three preferred options are: A multi use games area at Morecambe Bay Primary School A youth pub (no alcohol) Reduced rates for travelling on buses.

The next steps for taking this forward will be to plan the cost implications for Poulton Neighbourhood Management. Clearly we would wish to prioritise expenditure towards providing something for our younger residents. A full project appraisal will be presented to the management board and we will keep everyone updated as to the result in future editions of the Poulton Community Times.

Christmas Church Services At Morecambe Parish Church, Church Street

Wednesday December 20th
7.30pm Nine Lessons and Carols by Candlelight

Sunday 24th Christmas Eve
8am Holy Communion
10am Parish Eucharist
5pm Crib Service - everyone welcome, especially children
11.30pm Midnight Mass

Monday 25th Christmas Day
8am Holy Communion
10am Parish Eucharist for all the family