YOUNG PEOPLE OF BUSHMILLS ‘DROP-INTO THE DEN'

The young people of Bushmills were praised in their achievements in the planning and design of a new drop in centre called The Den at the opening this week.

John Moloney, spoke on behalf of The Den Committee informed invited guests that he felt the hard work involved in setting up the club had been worthwhile now that The Den is proving so popular with young people in the area.

Rosie Kane, Lindsay McKeown and Sam Crawford, members of the club described the activities they have enjoyed including Air Hockey, Pool, High Ropes Course at the local Education Centre, Play stations, hill walking. Planned trips include ab-sailing and combat games.

The young people thanked the Bushmills Children and Young People’s Planning Group and John Moloney for their support. They also extended their gratitude to the funders - Moyle LSP, NEELB, NHSSB, the Lottery Fair Share and Awards for All who have supported them in this initiative.

Jack Gault, Chair of the Bushmills C&YPPG a member of Northern Area Children’s and Young People’s Committee, which is lead by the Northern Health and Social Services Board, commended the young people for the success of the project:

“The Den meets a need identified by the young people of Bushmills and furthermore they have been instrumental in meeting that need. One of the main aims of Children’s Services Planning is to give young people a voice in shaping services to meet their needs. This project goes further in that young people are the main contributors to the design of the programmes.”

Gilbert Bell, Assistant Senior Education Officer (Youth) with the North Eastern Education and Library Board, who formally launched the project, praised the initiative saying:

“This is a great example of what can be achieved through partnership working. Consulting with young people and following through by involving them in the design, implementation and running of the Club makes a difference to its success. I would like to wish the young people of Bushmills every success with The Den”

Bushmills Children and Young People’s Planning Group is a locality group of the Northern Area Children and Young People’s Committee led by the NHSSB.