The Westmorland Gazette highlighted the issue facing some youth clubs around the South Lakes area (October 15, ‘Youth clubs across county face closure’).
My heart goes out to the Hallgarth community who are currently seeing the HYP temporary close. Obviously, county councils’ cuts are affecting front line services and no doubt more will be affected.
However, despite there being no youth club at Hallgarth at present and others are being threatened, there is work going on. There are many uniformed organisations in Kendal staffed by volunteers, who do some amazing work.
One such group which I am involved with is ATC Kendal Sq 1127, who provide more activities than I have fingers - shaping and giving fantastic skills to our young people of Kendal.
I’m concerned we draw attention to those doing the work in a paid capacity when there are lots of people giving their time up to work with young people.The Church in Kendal does a massive amount of work with young people and is committed to engaging with young people. I understand sometimes money needs to be available in grant form to help start or support youth work - however the church has been doing this for many years!
We need to think differently how we engage with young people in a challenging financial environment. I wish the Hallgarth every success for the future, but let’s not forget they are not the only ones doing the work!
The Rev Jonny Gios
Kendal
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