

A ground-breaking mobile project for young people kicks off in Ninefields, Waltham Abbey this month as part of the Safer Streets initiative.
Sports, music and podcast workshops
A partnership between Epping Forest District Council and Youth Unity the project involves sports, music workshops and podcasting.
The project will be mobile in the Hillhouse area of Ninefields (near to the Leisure Centre) on Fridays between 4pm and 7pm starting on 17 March. Activities are FREE and aimed at secondary school students.
Creating safe spaces
Holly Whitbread Cabinet Member for Housing and the driving force behind the Council’s bid for funding from the Home Office said:
We identified a need to create safe spaces and diversionary activities for young people of secondary school age on Ninefields.
We wanted to introduce an activity that hasn’t been done before in this area and thought music/podcasting is current, exciting, and young people could learn new skills.
Support services in the local area
There will be a sports coach present to get young people moving and engaged and BoothBus will be present on some sessions for those who are more passionate about music. The bus is equipped with a fully functioning studio and acts as a space where young people can learn the fundamentals on how to make beats.
The project aims to create a safe space for young people to have fun, in an environment where they can be themselves. Youth leaders will also be able to signpost both parents and young people to support services in the local area.
Safer Streets funding
This is part of the £338,000 Safer Streets funding from the Home Office, match-funded by £169,000 from Epping Forest District Council to boost community facilities and pride in the Ninefields community.
Young people can just turn up or contact EFDC and Youth Unity for more information
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