Help to prevent tensions in Woodhouse (Leeds Liberal Democrats)

Leeds Liberal Democrats <info@leedslibdems.org.uk>

Help to prevent tensions in Woodhouse

April 27, 2009 12:00 AM

A controversial government strategy designed to tackle extremism is being supported by local councillors in Leeds.

Councillors in Hyde Park and Woodhouse are in full support of two newly designed programmes which use money from the Leeds Prevent Community fund to improve relations in their ward.

The money will be used to support leisure, sport, music, media and art activities in the Woodsley Road and Burley areas, and target a new age range of young people aged 10-13 from low income Asian families. Youth services and partner agencies have been working with local Mosques, recruiting young Asian male volunteers to help deliver programmes in the area.

A second project for girls and boys aged 13-19 in Little London will include workshops such as DJing skills and planned trips out of the area. These projects are designed for young people at risk from or involved in anti-social behaviour, drugs and community tensions.

Cllr Kabeer Hussain (Lib Dem, Hyde Park and Woodhouse) said:

"This is definitely a step in the right direction, I know people are sceptical about the prevent agenda but there is no place for extremism in Leeds. These projects are a prime example of how Leeds is planning to use the funding positively. It's all about bringing the community together and helping children and young people who are at an influential age and are at risk from social exclusion.

"I look forward to seeing these projects in action I hope they will be taken up by young people in the area."

Cllr Penny Ewens said:

"I think the youth service should be commended for their effort in planning these projects and securing the funding. They have actually talked with children and young people to find out what activities they want to do and what problems they feel need to be addressed."