£10 Million For Youth Sector From Education Minister O'Dowd

Speaking about the scheme, Minister O’Dowd said: “As children and young people grow and develop it is vital they have the opportunity to engage in activities outside the school environment which help build their self-esteem and interpersonal skills. “Youth organisations provide a setting where young people can meet, make friends and take part in structured activities in a safe environment. These organisations can help young people improve their range of skills and attributes that can improve their employment prospects and compliment their learning in school. ”

The capital funding will be made available to Voluntary Youth Organisations in 2013/14 and 2014/15. The funding can be used to upgrade facilities i.e. creating access and facilities for people with a disability; essential health and safety work; fire safety and child protection measures.” The 

Minister added: “Youth work is a major contributor to improving educational and lifelong outcomes for our young people. I trust these grants will go some way to improving conditions and will provide a safe and accessible environment for our young people.”