Councillor funds welcome boost to local youth services

Harry Boparai is delighted to have been able to give a welcome boost to youth services in his Sunbury Common and Ashford Common division, using the discretionary funding available to him as a county councillor.  

With organised activities thin on the ground and public resources severely stretched, Harry has been particularly concerned about some young people having too much free time on their hands, who then get involved in anti-social behaviour, potentially being tempted to commit even more serious offences. He was keen to offer support to two particularly worthwhile projects in the area.

The team at the Methodist Church in Saxon Road, Ashford have been doing a great job in delivering activities for young people in the area, but their hard work has been hampered by a lack of up-to-date technology and equipment. Harry’s support will provide the finance to supply much-needed modern audio-visual equipment so that young people will be able to get involved in learning about audio and video production. This opportunity will introduce some young people to a new hobby, for others it will allow them to improve their existing skills. It may also for some, open up a worthwhile career path, that would not have otherwise been available to them.

The second contribution he has made was to Spelthorne Eagles, an organisation offering basketball coaching sessions for children and young people of all ages.

Harry said: “I attended a live session with the Eagles in July during my general election campaign and was so impressed with what they are doing with underprivileged children and people of all ages, having fun while exercising. This is great way to get young people involved in an activity that will improve both their physical and mental health.”

I initially approached the club due to the rise of antisocial behaviour within my area. I wanted to see if we could get any of the young people who were causing issues to get involved but the cost of participating was an issue. We have therefore provided funding which will make basketball more accessible to everyone in our community and will reach out to those kids who may otherwise be getting themselves into trouble on our streets.”