Lottery cash helps busy youth project expand outreach work

Level Two in Felixstowe will be working with youngsters on a range of projects, including helping them to become healthier and more active, and on issues such as self-harming, anxiety, stress, and addiction.

But leaders of the project – which has a youth hub above Tesco in Hamilton Road – have stressed that the grant over five years is for new projects and does not help with its annual £92,000 running costs.

Vice chairman Stephen Wyatt said: “This grant does not fund much of our existing work and we will still need to raise money for our running costs each year.”

The Big Lottery money will go to a project called Felixstowe Young People Healthier and more Active.

Project manager Shez Southernwood said: “Research shows a close link between poverty and poor health and wellbeing.

“In parts of Felixstowe, one in four children are living in income poverty.

“Promoting healthy lifestyles and self-care is a key priority in Suffolk County Council plans for children and young people.

“Our own young people with whom we currently work have identified as concerns many of the topics that our project will cover. We are delighted that the Big Lottery award will fully fund our new project to address these concerns.”

Level Two helps more than 660 young people every year, running a wide range of services for those aged 10 to 25, including many with a dysfunctional home life, facing financial hardship, or that have physical disabilities or mental health problems, anger issues, unemployment and caring responsibilities.

Topics covered in the new project will include mental health, looking at the effects and triggers of self-harm, distorted body image, anxiety and stress; physical health, First Aid, sexual health, addiction and substance misuse; and community involvement including personal safety, E-safety, relationships, volunteering and environmental awareness.