Agenda item - Youth Service Update and Use of Housing Revenue Account Funding

19.1    An Officer gave a brief overview of the Youth Service. The following was stated:

·         £16,000 was provided to contribute to the youth service.

·         A financial account was provided in relation to HRA contributions.

·         £125,000 was being requested for a 6-month extension.

19.2    Residents had the following enquiries, statements and concerns:

·         A resident enquired if this covered the whole city.

·         A resident enquired of the ratio of young people to helpers.

·         Residents expressed approval of the proposal and stated that they would prefer the money go to youth provision rather than other BHCC projects.

19.3    Officers responded to residents’ statements, concerns and enquiries with the following:

·         This would cover the entire City.

·         The ratio was currently 3 helpers to 15 young people including 2 volunteers.

19.4    Members of the youth groups attended the panel and gave testimony to their experience and perspective. The following was stated:

·         There were various opportunities provided for young people.

·         Examples were provided regarding the various activities that were enjoyed.

·         Young people were willing to meet other groups in different wards.

19.5    Councillor Simson stated that although Woodingdean had a small number of young people, the return and regular attendance was much higher than in other areas of Brighton.

19.6    AGREED – that the report be noted.