Summer of ‘Dreamscheme’ and ‘Making Good’ inspires local youngsters

Published by Maike Riedel for Circle in Housing and also in Communities

- Community projects see MoleValley’s young people do good deeds

For the third year in a row young people from across Mole Valley got together to turn their neighbourhoods into better places to live. Over 90 people aged seven to 16 took part in Mole Valley Housing Association’s ‘Dreamscheme’ and ‘Making Good’ programmes, which enable and inspire local youngsters to participate in fun community activities.

The community work included: building raised flower beds, organising activities for children as well as elderly people, restoring a classic phone box and many more. Every time they did something good and showed commitment, the young people were rewarded with trips for their hard graft. ‘Dreamscheme’ and ‘Making Good’ came to an end last week with celebrations where the ‘Dreamscheme’ group got together for a Dreamscheme party, while ‘Making Good’ participants had fun exploring Thorpe Park.

Paige Heath (11) said: ”I’ve come here because I want to make my community better. I’m really enjoying what I’m doing because if I wasn’t here I’d be at home on X-Box. I’ve met some good friends here”.

Kathryn Liddle, community development officer for Mole Valley Housing Association, part of Circle, said: “It’s exciting to see more and more young people engaging in our free Summer projects and taking pride in their neighbourhoods.

Through our community development and youth engagement work we have seen a reduction in anti-social behaviour. We also know that events like this help to deepen the relationships between residents and local agencies. Plus there are the obvious environmental improvements to the areas where the projects are run. We are thrilled with the support we received from all partners and volunteers, thanks to everyone involved.”

‘Dreamscheme’ and ‘Making Good’ programmes were organised by Mole Valley Housing Association in partnership with Surrey County Council youth development service, Leatherhead Youth Project, Ashtead Youth Club, The Bridge, Links Partnership, Harvest Church, Dorking Schools Partnership, Mole Valley District Council, Ashtead and Leatherhead Confederation, YMCA and Harpers Fitness.