Fears over the future of Bexley youth services are ramping as the council announces that no changes are to take place to youth centre buildings.
The council’s plan to restructure its youth services has sent tremors round the community with teenagers sharing their concerns surrounding the proposed cuts to the equivalent of seven full time positions.
BYC’s Jamie Moreland, 15, of Camborne Road, Sidcup
A spokeswoman for the council said: “If the proposals are accepted there could be a number of staff reductions equivalent to seven full time posts.
“Those affected will be fully supported throughout the process.
“The changes proposed to do not include changes to youth centre buildings at this time.
“Any property issues connected with the redesign of the service will be considered at a later stage as part of the council’s current review of its assets.”
TOP STORIES: Members of Bexley Youth Council (BYC), a voluntary organisation made up of young people with an aim to give teens a voice, have reacted passionately to the cuts.
BYC’s Jamie Moreland, 15, of Camborne Road, Sidcup said: "If youth clubs were to be shut down, many young people could have nowhere to spend their time.
Bexley council will discuss proposed changes on January 26
“The positive impact that the youth services have had on the young people of Bexley’s young people - including myself - is immense.
“The council should be looking to further this rather than limit it.”
The council is to consider changes in its youth services at its meeting next week January 26.
According to the council, if the changes are approved, the restructure will offer greater value for money for Bexley’s taxpayers.
The cabinet member for children’s services, coun Philip Read, said: “These proposed changes will mean a greater focus on targeting help and support to those young people most in need.
“In difficult times we have to make sure that we use our budget responsibly and that we direct any support we provide to those who need it most.
“This has a benefit for the whole community by reducing need, anti-social behaviour and criminality.
Bexley council believes the changes will benefit the youth services
“The proposals do not mean that youth activities will stop.
“On the contrary, they open up new opportunities by giving external groups and businesses the chance to run clubs and activities providing an even wider range of activities for our young people to choose from.”
Proposed changes to Bexley’s youth services will be put forward on January 26, at the Civic Offices in Watling Street, starting from 7.30pm.
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