PCC funding boost to Swindon youth enterprise project

Police and Crime Commissioner Mr Angus Macpherson and Wiltshire High Sheriff David Scott visited youth development scheme, The Platform Project based in Swindon this morning.

Earlier this year, The Platform Project was awarded a £3,000 grant by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) from money raised through the sale of unclaimed property.

These funds allowed the 2 year old youth development organisation moved to bigger, more fit-for-purpose offices 2 weeks ago and will enable them to engage and inspire more young people from the area, ranging between 13 and 23 years old.

The Platform Project offers a range of activities to young people, including website design, upcycling furniture, jewellery making, t-shirt and mug printing, as well as a whole host of various media related skills.

The young team create website content, a printed magazine called #idare, a blog and social media accounts aimed at covering topics relevant and important to other young people.

They are supported by volunteers experienced in these areas.

This variety of entrepreneurial skills are intended to help build the attendees confidence as well as helping to improve their longer-term employability.

One of the benefits of the scheme is that young people who may have otherwise left the education system taking are now taking college courses or exploring further education opportunities.