DRIVE project '˜does have an impact'

Participants of the DRIVE programme with their certificates.

Glens Community Association introduced the Developing Relationship In Vulnerable Environments (DRIVE) project almost two years ago.

Funded by the Department of Social Development, the project provides diversionary activities for children from neighbourhood renewal areas in the town including the Glens, Coolessan and Hospital Lane estates.

When it started, approximately 30 children turned up but that number has since rocketed. The most recent programme has just been completed bringing the total number of participants to more than 150, including children aged between five and 13, their parents and volunteers.

Project co-ordinator, Tina McCloskey, said DRIVE provide activities for that age group - from healthy eating, swimming, relationships.

Mrs McCloskey said the programme takes participants off the streets so they use their time positively. She said kids who would not have mixed previously have socialised in ways they likely never would have before.

Mrs McCloskey said it has also helped lower anti social behaviour in neighbourhood renewal areas.

“We ran programmes three nights a week and classes were so well attended. It does have an impact,” added Mrs McCloskey.