Youth

I have a very optimistic view of younger people. I believe that with appropriate support and encouragement they will generally work hard and go for it.

Family, school and the local scene all contribute to how younger people fare and so in many cases does the local youth club.

Let's set aside the blame game as to who is responsible for our massive debts — what I think we all know is that we need to cut spending — there is no other option.

Whichever party was running County Hall they would have to find massive savings. And youth service provision is currently under review (if you have not participated in the consultation please do so at http://new.devon.gov.uk/youthreview">http://new.devon.gov.uk/youthreview

The result looks likely to see far less funding from DCC for general youth services (although various statutory provision will still be maintained).

For all of us who care about our local youth clubs the response must now be to engage positively with local communities, to search not just for additional sources of funding but also for partnerships that can help to run these clubs.

The delivery model may need to change — the paid professional youth worker will still need to be there at the centre of each club but new partnerships and greater volunteer support will be key.

I have spent a lot of time visiting youth clubs. Bovey's Youth Café, The Bungalow Project in Buckfastleigh, The Chudleigh Youth Club, Room 13 in Okehampton, The Mess in Chagford amongst others.

They are great resources and we need to keep them going.

If you have any ideas on how local communities can better help preserve and improve local youth clubs please get in touch.

My offer to help fundraise and facilitate local community engagement is there for every youth club in my constituency.