New youth hubs will have mental health support

Young people in Lancashire will benefit from two new Young Futures Hubs under plans to strengthen youth services across parts of England.

Blackpool and Lancashire County Councils have been selected as two of 25 areas to receive a share of £70m government funding.

The new centres will provide a range of activities for young people aged 10 to 18, with some support also being made available for young adults until they are 25.

"It's just an absolutely fantastic opportunity for Blackpool and our young people are really deserving of this investment," said Blackpool Councillor Kath Benson, cabinet member for young people and aspiration.

"It's not easy being a young person in Blackpool," Benson told BBC Radio Lancashire.

"We've got challenges, but those young people are our assets."

Funded through the government's Young Futures Hubs and Transformation Programme, the plans include sports, arts, volunteering and skills projects, as well as providing access to mental health and wellbeing support.

By 2029, 42 hubs are due to open in England, building on existing pilot schemes in Manchester and Bristol.

The aim of the hubs is to bring services together in one place, making it easier for young people to find help, build relationships and take part in positive activities.

The programme, funded by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, is also intended to reduce the risk of young people becoming involved in crime.

The two local authorities are now planning to work with young people to decide how best to use the investment.

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