Million Hours Fund set to boost youth provision in Dunstable East
Dunstable Town Council is delighted share the news of their successful application of a Million Hours Fund for £100,000 to fund the delivery of a dedicated detached youth work project in Dunstable East.
The funding provides an additional 9 hours of youth work each week, focusing on after-school hours, weekends and school holidays. An extra 900 hours of detached youth work will be delivered over the next two years.
The target group for the project is those aged between 11 and 19, with the possibility of extending support up to 25 and those with special educational needs (SEN). The aim is to engage with the 11 to 19 population of Dunstable, through carefully considered activities such as skate jams, climbing walls, inflatable days, gaming/party buses, various sports coaching sessions, swimming sessions, and creative activities like crafts and dance.
The funding also enables increased contact hours for Detached Youth Workers to improve relations with youth who are engaging in anti-social behaviour and potential criminal activities in certain areas throughout the town. It has also created a fixed-term 2-year Senior Youth Worker position from April 2024 until the end of March 2026.
Thank you to the Government and The National Lottery Community Fund for making this possible.
The project aligns with Dunstable Town Council’s longstanding commitment to the community, building on over 30 years of positive reputation and engagement with Dunstable’s youth through existing Detached Youth Work and centre-based provision Grove Corner.
Dunstable Town Mayor Cllr Liz Jones comments: “I’m thrilled that Dunstable Town Council has been successful in their application for The Million Hours Fund, a visionary initiative that aligns with our commitment to creating positive change in our community. The funding will empower Dunstable Town Council to continue their commitment to delivering detached youth work and implement constructive activities for young people that not only diverts them from antisocial behaviour but also foster their personal growth and resilience.”
To stay updated on the project’s progress and keep and eye on various upcoming activities, visit www.dunstable.gov.uk or follow @grovecorner or @dunstabletowncouncil on social media.
About The Million Hours Fund
The Million Hours Fund is a £22 million jointly funded initiative from the Department for Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) and The National Lottery Community Fund, the largest community funder in the UK. The programme funds organisations to provide positive activities for young people in areas with high levels of antisocial behaviour.
