Young people tackle hard hitting issues in Strathfoyle

Twenty young people from Strathfoyle recently completed an early intervention programme for young people.
Some of the young people who took part in the recent early intervention project in Strathfoyle.Some of the young people who took part in the recent early intervention project in Strathfoyle.
Some of the young people who took part in the recent early intervention project in Strathfoyle.

The scheme, which is known as ‘The BreakOut Project’ was delivered by Enagh Youth Forum (E.Y.F.) came to an end this week and was funded by the Youth Justice Agency (Y.J.A.).

Young people aged between 14 and 20 took part in the programme which took place in the Strathfoyle area from February to March.

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The course saw young people take part in a variety of different activities such as orienteering, kayaking, first aid training and information sessions on anti-social behaviour and drugs and alcohol misuse.

The group also visited the Foyle Arena where they enjoyed the state of the art wall climbing facilities, a community allotment project in Maydown and visited Magilligan Prison.

Eamonn O’Donnell, BreakOut Project Youth Support Worker, said the scheme was a brilliant way of educating young people on effects of anti-social behaviour and drug and alcohol misuse.

“This project has been great so far with young people not only learning new skills and enjoying activities but also being presented with a ‘respectful challenge’ to think about anti-social behaviour and the impact it has on themselves, their families and the wider community. There are a load other activities happening during March and I would encourage everyone to get involved,” said Eamonn.

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“It’s through projects like this one that we can give young people the chance they need to better their lives,” he added.

Elsewhere, E.Y.F. has received letters supporting their proposal to replace the fence that surrounds Strathfoyle Youth Centre and North West Teacher Centre.

“The current fence at the education authority Llands in Strathfoyle is dull, divisive and needs to be upgraded,” said Paul Hughes from E.Y.F.

Residents of the Old Fort area feel disconnected from the rest of the local community and many community services including the youth centre, library and local play group are hidden away. If the fence was to be upgraded it will breathe a new lease of life into Strathfoyle and greatly enhance the main street.

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“Local people want to see this fence upgraded as soon as possible and it is something that is frequently mentioned in recent community surveys and is listed as a potential action in the Starthfoyle Community Plan 2015-2020,” said Paul.

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