Good quality youth work can have a significant impact on the lives of young people - Ruane

Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane, has attended the re-launch of Newhill Youth and Community Centre.

Speaking at the ceremony in West Belfast, the Minister said: “I am pleased to be invited here to celebrate the re-launch of your new centre and that my Department was able to provide the £123,000 funding for the refurbishment. Events such as these show how local people working together can unite community spirit and give the local people what they deserve.

“It is important for young people within communities to have somewhere to go and I am certain that these facilities will be here for generations to come. It will be of benefit to not only the children and young people of Newhill and surrounding areas, but the community as a whole.

“Young people make a positive contribution to our society and community through sport, education community-based projects and voluntary work, but they often need support.

“Good quality youth work can have a significant impact on the lives of young people, particularly marginalised young people or those at risk of disengaging from formal education. I, as Education Minister, want to ensure that we do everything we can to provide the best possible opportunities and facilities for young people.

“My Department is committed to targeting inequality and tackling educational underachievement and even though we are making good progress in a number of areas we cannot become complacent.”

The Minister concluded: “This will be a welcome addition to services in the area and will provide a community resource where the young and old can come together. I offer you all best wishes, happiness and enjoyment in the use of your refurbished centre.”

David Cargo, Chief Executive, Belfast Education and Library Board (BELB), said: “The refurbishment of Newhill Youth Club will allow the dedicated team of youth workers and volunteers to continue to provide quality youth provision in an area of great economic and social need.

“In addition to the superb refurbishment, the BELB has increased its support to Newhill Youth Club and now provides 100 per cent of its staffing costs and has recruited a new part-time youth work team. I would like to congratulate all involved and the staff, volunteers and young people of Newhill every success for the future.”

Notes to editors:

1. The cost of the refurbishment was approximately £123,000 and was funded by the Department’s Youth Capital Scheme.
2. The community centre provides an “Out of School Club”, youth club, sports and fitness group, drama and dance group and arts group.
3. Media enquiries to the Department of Education Press Office Tel: 02891279207. Out of office hours contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699715440 and your call will be returned.