U.K. Department for Children, Schools And Families Announces $18m for Youth-led Creative Projects

U.K. Young People’s Minister Beverley Hughes has announced £9 million for creative youth-led projects including film making, designing computer games, and online and print news.

The money will be available over the next three years and will help young people get hands-on experience in one of the country’s growing industries. The Department for Children, Schools and Families are already discussing with Mediabox how the first £2 million of this funding can build on the innovative work they do in inspiring young people to take part in creative youth-led projects.

Beverley Hughes said “Often when I meet young people they tell me about a lack of things to do and places to go. That is why our Youth Strategy is all about creating opportunities that empower young people to make decisions and engage in their communities. We have committed £679million for positive activities for young people and projects like Mediabox offer a fantastic opportunity for young people to get some hands-on experience in one of our growing industries, to talk about their lives and hopes and to showcase what they are capable of.”

Former Chief Executive of News and Regions, ITV and Chairman of Mediabox Clive Jones, said “Since its launch at the beginning of 2007 we have seen some fantastic media projects developed by young people. Mediabox provides an opportunity for some really talented young people who may not have the formal qualifications that would traditionally get them into the media. I am excited to see what projects they develop in 2008.”

To date, Mediabox has funded 117 projects, benefiting 6000 young people across England and this additional funding boost will ensure that thousands more vulnerable young people can look forward to a much happier New Year. Following a competitive tendering exercise, a consortium of media organizations - led by First Light Movies, and including the Media Trust, Skillset, and the UK Film Council came together under the brand name of Mediabox to deliver the Youth Media Fund on the Government’s behalf through 2006-8. Mediabox has offered grants ranging from £100 to £80,000, for projects to be completed and distributed by March 2008.

Source: UK Government

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