Youth workers are calling for action to save vital youth services from closure in Brighton and Hove. The council is planning to scrap a £1.3 million three-year contract that provides support to some of the most vulnerable young people in the area.
The plans are a response to yet another wave of cruel cuts by the government, who are increasingly stripping back local finances across the country. But hard times are when young and vulnerable people most need the protection of their community, and instead the council seems set to abandon them.
The council funding is relied upon to attract money from other sources, such as the National Lottery. The loss of around £450,000 a year, and the resultant loss of other funds that rely on that figure, is set to hit eleven voluntary organisations across Brighton and Hove, and some may be forced to close.
The loss of the contract will be a devastating blow for many, threatening to end key projects aimed at equalities youth work for three protected groups (LGBT, BME and disabilities), youth substance misuse, and sexual health services.
Removal of support for vulnerable youths is likely to lead to a rise in more serious issues. An insider who wished to remain anonymous said: "They’re cutting preventative services. They’ll be left with the more expensive, more specialised services." In short, the council is sentencing a huge number of young people to a grimmmer future. We must not let our young people lose the opportunity to build their skills, confidence and wellbeing.
Please sign this petition to demand that Brighton and Hove council DO NOT cut the £1.3 million youth services contract. If enough people sign, we can put pressure on the council to protect these services.
