Wednesday March 27th 2024
Midlothian MP Owen Thompson has revealed his delight after a youth project was awarded £300,000 Levelling Up cash from the UK Government.
Thompson backed the Penicuik Youth-Hub initiative heralding it as a transformative force for the area’s young people.
He wrote to Levelling Up chief Michael Gove backing the scheme from The Penicuik & District Young Men’s Christian Association and Young Women’s Christian Association.
He said: “This is great news and so well deserved. This organisation has consistently shown an unwavering commitment to equipping young people with essential life skills.
“This is a scheme which will bolster youth work delivery tailored to local needs.
“With plans to revamp the existing community hub into a contemporary, sustainable youth hub, the initiative aims to empower youngsters through vocational training, mental and physical health support and a platform to realise their potential.
“I always believed that the Penicuik Youth-Hub deserved support from the Community Ownership Fund.
“This funding will enable the enhancement of building facilities and the expansion of diverse youth activities, including sports, music, digital skills and social media.
“It will ensure the long-term sustainability of the hub and provide our young residents with the highest quality services available.”
The Community Ownership Fund is billed as helping “communities across the United Kingdom to take ownership of beloved community assets at risk of closure”.
This fund – which forms part of the UK Government’s wider levelling up agenda – is now open for bid applications until April 10.
Thompson said: “With its goal of supporting 1500 young people by 2026, the Penicuik Youth-Hub aligns perfectly with our shared vision of a thriving and empowered youth community.
“By prioritising their needs and working collaboratively, this initiative will deliver exceptional personal development and life skills programmes.”
He added: “I eagerly await the unfolding progress and triumphs of the Penicuik Youth-Hub.
“It will undoubtedly be a great boost for the local community. This funding will be instrumental in turning their vision into a reality and creating a brighter future for the young residents of Penicuik.”
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