A YOUTH forum has been set up to give young people in Consett a voice.

The Y Shout About It project is part of a project to empower children aged 11-19 being run by staff at Consett YMCA on Parliament Street.

This Friday members are meeting Pat Glass, north-west Durham MP, to discuss what they think needs to be done for young people in the former steel town.

The scheme is being run by two-18-year-old YMCA apprentices Mollie McIver, of Low WestWood, and Hayley Brown, of Consett, who both attended Consett Academy.

As well as considering leisure activities for young people, the forum will also be looking at youth employment opportunities, and other issues such as sexual and mental health, drug abuse, alcohol misuse and anti social behaviour.

Miss Brown said: “We have got some 10 and 11 year olds and they are talking about crime levels and what is happening on the streets. That is quite hard hitting. If they are noticing this sort of thing, it is something we would like to do something about.”

The forum will be meeting with police officers, councillors and funding groups to discuss ways to improve life for young people in communities in and around Consett.

Miss McIver said: “We hope young people will get more confidence and have an independent voice rather than have adult telling them what there is for them to do. At the minute they have everything planned for them.

“This gives people the chance to speak out and make changes in their local community.”

To find out more call the YMCA on 01207-502680.