Background to YDC

We formed the YDC in July 2006 to give young people in Fenland a voice in the decisions made by Fenland District Council. We get to influence the Council when it develops its objectives, decides its key priorities and sets out plans for how it delivers its services.

We meet formally every two months in the Council Chambers at Fenland Hall or at Exchange Tower in Wisbech. Within our meetings we discuss issues concerning young people in Fenland and find out about projects in the Council which affect the community.

We also have a small grants scheme of £10,000 which is awarded by the YDC members for projects which are run by young people or on behalf of young people.

Through our small grant scheme, we have helped to fund some very exciting projects including:

• new equipment for March Town Cricket Club
• computer games for Young People March, and,
• archery sessions for the 1st March Scout Group
• a multicultural festival in Whittlesey
• musical equipment for 'C4 Jammin' in Wisbech

Councillor Steve Garratt, portfolio holder for young people, is pleased with our work. He said: "Through our YDC, we are ensuring that the views of young people are represented and they are making a valuable contribution to the whole democratic process."

Julie Gunn, Locality Youth Worker in Whittlesey who works with local young people at the Whittlesey Youth Club submitted and received a grant to hold a multicultural festival event in Whittlesey in the Summer, she said "The Eastern Fusion Week was a fantastic opportunity for young people to have fun, take part in activities and learn about local and global cultures.....The Whittlesey Youth Committee put in the funding bid with support from youth workers.  The feedback from the young people was great and they are really up for doing it again!"

If you wish to contact the Youth District Council or find out more about applying for a Youth Grant please email Ross McGivern at: ydc@fenland.gov.uk.