A Voice For Young People - Youth Strategy 2008-2012

Far reaching work to look at opportunities for young people in the district has led to the approval of a major new Youth Strategy, which is already leading to positive actions.

Following consultation coming out of the strategy, a Reach For The Sky event is being held at The Ark in Dover on Tuesday 22 July, from 10am to 1pm. The event is being organised by the Children's Society and Dover District Council for a discussion and consultation on services for disabled children in Dover District. The consultation is open to all, so you are asked to come along on the day if you wish to take part.

The Dover District Youth Strategy 2008-2012 is a major strategy for the next five years, focusing on the areas young people have highlighted as the important issues affecting their lives. It has been developed taking into account key national, regional and local policies, and follows extensive work with young people in the area and feedback from a wide range of stakeholders. The strategy was approved by Dover District Council last week and will be launched later this year. It is being facilitated by DDC's Youth Officer. The multi agency strategy will be delivered by a range of partners in the community, with the support of Dover District Council, Kent County Council, and more than 50 partners in the voluntary, community, public and private sectors.

Tom Johnstone, Kent Youth County Councillor and Dover District Youth Forum Member said: "Young people's voices should be heard, not only as an exercise, but to change policy and other daily activities that affect us, and I think that with the 'Dover District Youth Strategy' our voices are being heard."

For more information on the Youth Strategy, the Youth Forum, or the Reach For the Sky event, you can see the Council website at www.dover.gov.uk or contact DDC Youth Officer Yvonne Holder on (01304) 872153.