You may be aware of the publicised closure of the existing youth provision and facilities (known locally as the Youth Club) based in Chard. The Trustees and Committee have announced that they have no option but to close due to “financial constraints”.  Whilst the Town Council has supported the provision for many years, in the form of grants, this is not a statutory task.

Chard Town Council Officers, at the request of the Chard Area Youth Committee, have been working with them on a confidential basis so that the Full Council could consider a way or ways forward.

This is a complex, very specialist matter and, to facilitate ways forward, the Council has set up a Steering Group to gain input and views from those with an interest, skills and expertise in this sector.  The first Steering Group session has already been held to set a baseline and map a way forward with the second session being held this week.

The Steering Group is reaching out, at this stage, for expressions of interest for help or input from those who may run similar facilities, have relevant skills and experience or may be interested in helping with the youth provision in Chard.

We will be widening the consultations and discussions in coming weeks but, for now, we would welcome expressions of interest by email at youth@chard.gov.uk