Housing providers encouraging young people to engage

Published by Max Salsbury for 24dash.com in Communities and also in Housing

A number of housing providers have joined forces to encourage young people from across several estates to make a difference in their local community.

Established in 2010, the Youth Engagement Plus Programme (YEP) is a partnership between Hackney Homes, Genesis Housing Association, Sanctuary Housing and Rising Tide.

YEP gives young Hackney residents an opportunity to have their voice heard by discussing community improvements whilst meeting new people, attending training sessions and gaining key skills.

Youth committee members meet on a regular basis to arrange local activities and events in their communities whilst also representing the views of their fellow peers through Tenant and Resident Association meetings, Neighbourhood Youth Forums and within the Hackney Youth Parliament.

YEP’s aim is to increase the amount of youth and community activities taking place on its estates, whilst being a sounding board for its landlords in order to help bring about change.

Landfield and Beckers Committee member, Yolanda Lear said: “I have really enjoyed being a part of the YEP committee, it has helped to build my self-confidence and I’ve gained key skills in photography training sessions. I have met people from different areas and it’s been great to be able to do my bit for the community.”
 
Hackney Homes Head of Tenancy and Leasehold, Neehara Wijeyesekera said: “This is a great scheme which helps young people interact with peers across the borough and gain valuable skills. We listen and act upon the opinions of our young residents, regarding improvements to service delivery and community projects.”