Young people ‘U-Nite’ this summer

Youngsters at the U-Nite event get to know their local PCSO

Over 150 youngsters from across Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale got together to explore how community relationships can be improved based on understanding, respect and tolerance.

The young people aged 12- 16 from a range of social, economic and cultural backgrounds met at the borough’s annual community cohesion inspired event called U-Nite at Hopwood Hall College’s Middleton campus this month (August).

The event gives young people the opportunity to discuss issues such as; anti-social behaviour – the impact it has within communities and the perception of young people, as well as the consequences of being involved with drugs, alcohol, knives, guns and gangs.

Greater Manchester Police’s armed response team introduced the youngsters to their dangerous day to day work. The long-term harm that can be inflicted by not wearing seat belts was also highlighted.

Discrimination and ignorance were challenged in structured workshops and young people were encouraged to express themselves on issues such as racism and homophobia through art, song-writing and drama.

Through the day youngsters could stroll around an ‘agency market’ where they could engage with local services to get help, advice or information on topics such as leisure, health (smoking, drugs and alcohol), the environment, education, employment and training opportunities.

Tom Byrne, Principal Community Safety Officer at Rochdale Borough Council and project leader of the U-Nite event, said: “We want to develop better relationships amongst different groups of young people and improve their relationships with authoritative agencies such as the council, the police, NHS, fire service and many other professionals. By working together, with them and giving them a voice, we hope to find positive solutions to some of problems that affect them and the communities they live in.

“We hope that the community projects will dispel many unfounded myths that all young people are unruly and taking part in anti-social behaviour. These youngsters have made a commitment to making a difference in their communities.”

This year, organisers were given another helping hand from over 30 volunteers aged 16 to 25 from Vinvolved, Rochdale’s young person’s volunteering organisation, who helped to facilitate and coordinate the event. First Bus even provided these volunteers with complementary free bus passes for the day and training sessions.

Irene Davidson, Rochdale Borough Council Leader, said: “The U-Nite event provides young people with a valuable lesson in respect, acceptance and tolerance that will stand them in good stead to become socially responsible adults in the future.

“I’d like to thank everyone who was involved in coordinating and facilitating the event, especially the young Vinvolved volunteers who kindly gave their time free of charge. It just goes to prove that Rochdale borough is home to many socially responsible young adults who want to make a difference in their community.”