Meeting documents

Purpose of the Report

1. To inform Members of the Sub-Committee about progress made with the ‘Carrier Bag Culture’ project.

Background

2. A Working Group has been set up to consider the issue of disaffected young people in parts of Easington District. The title of the project is ‘the Carrier Bag Culture’ because of its association with young people congregating with carrier bags of drugs and alcohol. The aim of the project is to consider this issue within relatively small areas of the County and to consider whether any recommendations can be made about good practice which could be of assistance throughout the County.

3 The Working Group is meeting in local venues. The first two meetings took place at the Wheatley Hill Heritage Centre. Further local venues are planned. Easington District Council is represented on the Working Group and is fully involved in a partnership approach. The first meeting involved a position statement to try to understand some of the major factors.

4 The over-riding theme from the first meeting was that there was a need to listen to young people and not make assumptions. Arrangements are being made, with the assistance of the Investing in Children initiative, to engage in dialogue with the young people in a genuine attempt to understand their point of view. This may take a little time. Whilst this is happening, the Working Group are taking detailed evidence from the many agencies involved in tackling this issue. The views from young people will then be considered and assist in framing recommendations.

5 Evidence has so far been received from the Youth Offending Team and the local police. A programme of further evidence is being planned.




Recommendation

6 You are recommended to note this report.

Background Papers

Presentations from County Council Officers to the Working Group.

Contact: Ian Mackenzie Tel: 0191 383 3506

Attachments