Wigan Council launches new fund for young people

Youth Cabinet and Ambassadors at Wigan Youth Zone

The Dragons’ Den-style scheme will also be managed by a panel of young people who will decide which bids are successful.

Coun Susan Gambles, lead member for youth opportunities, said: “Young people know what sorts of improvements will have the most positive impact for their age group, so investing in a fund for them to manage and apply into themselves means the money will be spent on those things that are most needed and have a greater impact.

“The younger generation is full of great and innovative ideas, so we wanted to offer one way for them to be able to turn those ideas into reality.”

To apply, young people need to fill in a simple application form designed by Wigan and Leigh Youth Cabinet.

A panel from the youth cabinet will decide which bids have what it takes to reach the next stage and invite applicants to meet them and present their ideas. Applicants will then be told if their bid has succeeded and how much money they will receive to take their idea forward.

Coun Gambles said: “The process will give practical experience on how to apply for funding and builds skills that could potentially help them attract more funding into the borough in the future.”

Dylan, 15, from Wigan, and Joshua, 13, from Leigh, are in the youth cabinet and will be part of the decision-making panel.

Dylan said: “We don’t expect perfect applications; we’re just looking for some interesting ideas that can be delivered and that will help make things better for local young people.”

Joshua added: “It will give you a great experience of applying for funding and the money will help improve young people’s facilities across the borough.”

The fund will close at the end of January.

Coun Gambles said: “You don’t very often come across a fund that is administered and agreed by young people, so I would encourage anyone between the ages of eight to 19 in the borough to take a look at the website and think about what you could apply for.”

For details and to apply, go to www.wigan.gov.uk/YIF

Thanks for reading. If you value what we do and are able to support us, a digital subscription is just £1 for your first month. Try us today by clicking here and viewing our offers ..