Published: Thursday, 4th August 2022
Space 2022 is now underway and continues until 26 August. Activities are available to view online, with more being added daily.
The Space summer programme brings together public, voluntary and private sector organisations to provide enjoyable positive activities for young people that increase their skills, improve their health and wellbeing and create opportunities, while also aiming to reduce levels of anti-social behaviour during the school summer holidays.
In 2021, over 6,000 young people, aged between 8 and 17, enjoyed over 1,400 activities funded by the Staffordshire Commissioner as part of the Space programme. There were over 17,600 attendances at events, equating to over 35,333 hours.
Space 2022 started on 25 July and will end on 26 August. It offers a variety of activities including swimming and gym passes, multi sports and park events, trips out and arts and crafts.
Councillor Bryan Jones, Deputy Leader of the Council and Portfolio Leader for Community Safety and Partnerships said “We are delighted that Space has returned to our District for another year. Engaging young people in activities during the school holidays is important to develop their interpersonal and social skills and reduce the risk of the few who might be tempted to engage in anti-social behaviour."
Councillor Adrienne Fitzgerald, Portfolio Leader for Housing, Heritage and Leisure said “There are lots of activities in Cannock Chase, for young people to get involved in this summer. The programme encourages participation in sport, arts and crafts, physical activity and much more, which will help to improve the health and wellbeing of our young people.”
Space was relaunched in 2015 and has since gone from strength to strength, with a 77% reduction in youth ASB during the summer period since 2016. When the programme began in 2016, 1,395 reports of youth related ASB were recorded compared to 320 in 2021.
Staffordshire Commissioner for Police, Fire & Rescue and Crime, Ben Adams said: ‘Space clearly makes a difference, providing memorable experiences for many while diverting some away from potential involvement in low-level crime and anti-social behaviour.
‘The activities provide an opportunity for Staffordshire Police and partners to engage with young people who may be going through a difficult time to help nurture, support and develop them and this is why I have committed to Space running for a further 3 years.
‘Activities are now available to book online and I am looking forward to calling into some sessions to see the scheme in action. ’
Book your session and find out more: www.staffordshirespace.uk