The project first started in Mere and Tisbury community areas and now runs across the Wilton and Southern Wiltshire community areas.

The aim of the project is for young people like you who are aged 13-19 to undertake tasks that benefit the community. You are given leisure credits depending on the amount of work you do. These leisure credits can then be used to go on a variety of trips and activities.

The project is funded from a variety of sources including local fundraising by young people.

The Work

You can get involved with a variety of tasks such as painting seats and benches, clearing out rivers and gardens, restoring footpaths and steps, decoration and maintenance at local youth centres as well as some major longer term environmental projects within the community areas.

These tasks are identified by young people, parish councils, individual members of the community and youth workers.  The majority of work takes place outdoors, in towns, villages and in the open countryside. There is almost always an element of physical activity to the work and you will be involved in deciding how best to complete each task.

The work that is selected is always safe and suitable for you whatever your level of skill and ability and you are always supervised by someone who has the appropriate level of experience.

The Rewards

Once you have completed a work day you are awarded a number of credits depending on how well you and others think you have worked over the session. You can then decide as a group where you would like to go on a trip or activity. Depending on the amount of credits you have you may be able to do more than one reward trip or activity and if you don’t want to go on a trip that is planned you can save your credits for another time.

In the past young people have chosen to go to theme parks, bowling, the theatre, cinema, ice skating, visiting Christmas markets, Go Karting, Go Ape, Snowdome, Zorbing and much more.

As a part of the ‘Leisure Credits’ scheme you also have the opportunity to take part in accredited training in skills such as brush cutting, tree felling and first aid.

The work that you do and the accredited training can be added to your  CV and it increases your chance of a job or further training, as well as giving you skills in problem solving, negotiation, team work, responsibility and relationship building.

How To Get Involved?

You can get involved in the ‘Leisure Credits’ scheme in a variety of ways. These are:

• Attending the leisure credit sessions and using the rewards on trips and activities.
• Telling your friends about the scheme and encourage them to get involved
• Come up with ideas for where work can take place such as your village/town

 To find out more and how to get involved contact - Jaki Farrell - jaki.farrell@wiltshire.gov.uk

The idea of improving the skate park has arisen because of the terrible condition. The ramps are becoming unsafe and are also attracting anti-social behaviour. The idea has been discussed with the Town Council, Wiltshire Council and the Police who broadly support it.

Please download and complete the flyer on this page to give us your support.

Last Tuesday, Wiltshire Council held an event to introduce the newly elected Council Members to the services of Wiltshire Council. From transport to money, music to foster care, Council Members were here to find out about our local area, and most importantly to listen. We were lucky enough to interview some of the new and  existing Members of the Council, to get their views on things that can be changed in Wiltshire for young people.

David Pollitt is a new Council Member for Melksham that has made a huge difference to some young people’s life’s in the area. He is a Duke of Edinburgh leader and has been an instructor for the cadets in Melksham for eight years. Focusing on this one group of teens means David puts his all into helping these young people in Wiltshire alone. To promote this ongoing event, he sends people into schools to talk about the sort of things you can get involved with, like the volunteering work the teens do to help raise money. Although he's pleased with the large number of people who join the cadets in Melksham, he believes people are getting fed up with the area, bored most of the time, and need more events in the area to keep them busy. (link at bottom of the page)

Covering the edge of Devizes, Laura Mayes was elected four years ago and is now the Council Member for Children’s Services.  Laura attends meetings for Devizes to help bring ideas to the area. From these meetings, the idea of opening a new skate park in the summer is very likely, which Laura has been working on over the last four years. With a large number of the population of Devizes saying they’re bored, the aim at the moment is to find a place for young people to hang out, ones that are too young for the pub but too old to stay at home. It seems people need better views on the teens sitting in groups playing guitar, as they are not doing any harm but are just bored. The Area Board in Devizes has a focus on young people in the area, it’s an opportunity to discuss issues and apply for money, but unfortunately not many young people attend these meetings any more. However since then, the directory DCAP has been put online to promote new things for people to do in the Devizes area. (link at bottom of the page)

In the Landford and Redlynch areas of Southern Wiltshire, Leo Randall believes that more needs to be done in his area. With a limited amount of services in this part of Wiltshire, young people are struggling to find something to do. They too have youth advisory groups, but with no teens going whatsoever, not much is being changed. Leo commented, ‘Generally speaking they are actually very pleasant young people. They’re not a lot of trouble. But because they’re not a lot of trouble there’s a tendency for them to be forgotten.’ With no youth club in town, and no evening buses, transport is the main issue. The teens often have to rely on their parents to give them lifts to their social events, which is something that hopefully the area board will be able to discuss, and change.

One of the busiest women in Wiltshire, Carolyn Godfrey covers the whole Wiltshire area as a Corporate Director. Her main focus is on Children’s Services, i.e. education in schools, social services, youth services, care and youth offending. She feels the main priority for young people in the next four years is to try and do what young people have suggested :achieve well in school so that they can move on to further training or employment, as well as provide good jobs in Wiltshire. She told us the exciting news at the moment is  Bath Spa University moving one of its campuses into Wiltshire for the first time- allowing more people in Wiltshire to be well educated. Bullying is another key priority for Carolyn. She wants to eliminate all bullying in and out of schools once and for all. Let’s hope these changes can be made around Wiltshire.

Jon Hubbard is South Melksham’s council member and representative for the Area Board, helping with issues and working with the YAG (youth advisory group). Recently, he got street youth workers to organise activities like working in King George 5th playing fields where there were people saying there was anti-social behaviour, but was actually a group of young bored teenagers! He helped with the Extended Services team that was set up and funded by the last government, to help schools keep busy after the school times of 9.00-3.30 who organise after school clubs and activities. Jon now chairs the Extended Services in Melksham which promotes things for children and teenagers to do after school hours. Another great thing about this service is that, previously young people had to pay for a bus if they wanted to discuss any issues they may have, this new charity has funded putting a Youth Counsellor into the Melksham Youth Centre on Thursdays 4.00pm-7.00pm for any young person to meet and talk too, about issues important to them. http://www.sparksite.co.uk/activities/need_someone_to_talk_to_melksham_2013

In the future, Jon says he wants to see more young people playing more of a role in decision making, and to see a youth representative on the Area Board would be the icing on the cake! (link at bottom of page for the youth advisory group)

The re-elected Leader of the Council, Jane Scott covers the West Chippenham area of Wiltshire, and has been involved in starting up SparkSite & Spark Radio and very much involved in the National Youth Agency. Her big interests are children and teenagers in Wiltshire who need a hand with socialising. She believes the youth centre in Chippenham isn’t a good facility for teens to enjoy themselves, and should be developed into a better social place. She commented; ‘I think what is good is the studio hall down at the Olympiad. For young people down there, that’s much more the sort of facility we aspire to provide for the youngsters.’ With lots of music events and recordings, it’s a great venue for teenagers. Jane hopes that in the next few years the youth services will become more relevant, less old-fashioned. To have a more flexible youth service, and to generally have different events for people to enjoy in the area.

Alan Macrae is Corsham’s local councillor. As the Corsham Area Board Chairman, he has a large interest in working with Young Carers. Being a member of the council for a while, he says it would be nice for a young member of the public to come to the Area Board meetings and say, ‘What can we do about this?’ or ‘Can we discuss this?’ Every year he organises for young people to be invited to these meetings, to get young people more involved and committed in a small area like this would be ideal for Wiltshire.’

In the area of Calne, Glenis Ansell provides help for young people through music. Trying to raise funds for schools, she helps with non-attendance and tries to re-generate children’s interests in education. She created a one-day pop festival which is being used to raise money for other events, called Calnefest, which is in its third year. The next event is on 8th June at the Recreation Ground in Calne. With an amazing £3,000 gone to the town charity already through Calnefest, this is the perfect place to be for young music lovers!

With great responses from the Councillors, and positive attitudes towards young people in Wiltshire, it looks like there is going to be some brilliant changes in the future, with supportive members by our side, fingers crossed for a happier, “less boring” county!

http://dcap.org.uk/

http://armycadets.com/county/wiltshire-acf/

http://www2.bathspa.ac.uk/services/corsham-court-centre/

http://southwestwilts.ourcommunitymatters.org.uk/news/youth-advisory-group-looking-for-members/

Kelly Jordan, Sparksite Reporter

See the flier for more details

Go to our Facebook page -https://www.facebook.com/WiltshireYouth and private message us to let us know if you are in -

• employment
• education
• training
• or unemployed looking for work

Don't forget to include your name and address so we can enter you into the draw - we are giving away a FREE 32GB Nexus every 4 months - the 1st one will be drawn on 1st July 2013......

For further details, terms and conditions and why we need to know please click on the following link - http://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/latestnews.htm?aid=139745

You can also login here and let us know too if you like  - Thanks

A team of volunteers, lead by a group of experimental archaeologists, started to build the three houses at the start of May. Nearly eight weeks later, surviving through bouts of snow and heavy rain, they managed to create the buildings, true to what they think the houses would have looked like, and true to how houses in the Neolithic era would be made.

However, a slight outline of the context of these houses is needed. Around the Durrington Wall, one mile from the Stonehenge site, a few hundred bases for houses were found. After an archaeological dig, and some carbon dating, it was found that these remnants, mainly only what is left by camp fires and chalk flooring, dated back to the later parts of the Stone Age. Which was when Stonehenge was built.

Many theories were abounding the site of the build, but the prevalent one seemed to be an excited feeling that the site at Durrington Wall could have been the camp for the builders of Stonehenge. And so, it was decided that these houses should be put forwards to be built outside the new Stonehenge Visitors Centre. This would give tourists in Stonehenge, in addition to the two planned galleries inside the building, a hands on look at how the people who made Stonehenge lived.

However, they must first be prototyped, and then displayed to archaeologists to decide if they agree with the interpretation on how those in the Stone Age, some 4000 years ago, would have lived, and also to groups of schoolchildren, and as many visitors as possible, to check that they would take the wear of thousands of people trampling through them every week, once on the Stonehenge site. So, these three houses, based on three of the house plans found outside Durrington, have been created.

After an amazing look at just how long ago these houses were made, and how the history of the human race stretched before that, we, a group of visitors, looked around the houses. Due to the lack of any other evidence for how they were made, other than stake holes, and chalk outlines, the part of the houses above the ground was left open to interpretation. However, the team of volunteers used Stone Age methods and the materials around the Durrington site at that time (shown by looking at pollen traces from 4000 years ago). The challenge of one house that had traces in the form of a fireplace, but nothing else, and the wish to build a “Frankenstein house”, which tried out many different possible styles of construction, seems too much compounded by the lack of knowledge about the ground upwards of the houses, but as experimental archaeologists, this is what the leaders of the project are good at, and they pulled it off. An untraceable house was made, which could be lifted off and not leave any markings, as was a house that trialled many types construction techniques, some of which worked, some of which did not. The third house was a large, almost fully constructed abode, which had Stone Age style furniture, including beds and a shelf, in which some of the volunteers planned to live in for a week, to check that it could be lived in, and that they had made it correctly.

As an aside to the main attraction was an area in which visitors could try working with Stone Age and copper axes, and a space to try weaving sticks into a wall. This gave a welcome insight into how it actually felt to create one of these houses, along with a look at the technology used to do so.

Check out their latest newsletter!!

Listen to the interview on our Spark Podcasting service

I went to see Mamma Mia at the Novello theatre in London on the 28th of March 2013. It was a very impressive production filled with singing and dancing. The cast where all very convincing and entertained everyone in the theatre. By the end of the show almost everyone was up and out of their seats dancing and singing.

Before I saw the show I thought that the production would be a lot like the film. However many of the songs in the stage show were not in the film which made it less predictable. All the actors were great singers, actors and dancers. They were all great inspiration for me as I am going to be in St Johns production of Grease.

The set of the show was very simple but very effective. This was good because it meant that you knew where to look and when there was lots going on it didn’t look messy or unrehearsed.

For those who have never seen Mamma Mia it is about a girl called Sophie (played by Charlotte Wakefield) who is trying to find out who her father is out of three possible men, Harry, Bill and Sam (Neil Roberts, James Gaddas and Gary Milner). Sophie does this by inviting the men to her wedding at her mother Donna’s (Rebecca Bainbridge) hotel on a Greek island. Sophie tries to keep it a secret from her mother but she soon finds out that they are on the island and staying in her own hotel! The story line continues, it follows how the men bond with the mother and how Sophie prepares for her wedding and begins to have second thoughts. The show was funny, entertaining and full of songs to sing along to! At the end of the show it finishes quite quickly, however it’s not over as the whole cast comes back on for a sing along. It’s the perfect opportunity for embarrassing dad dancing! By the end I don’t think anyone was sitting down or humming a tune!

If you would like to help out or just find out more please get into contact with us on 01249 782366 or email us at anna@castlecoombetearooms.co.uk

Sound Knowledge has been no exception to those participating this year, celebrating on the 20th April in the tradition music loving way, with a ton of old and new record/music enthusiasts poring in from all around. 

The stores owner has played his part inspiringly, putting on a number of events in honor of the national event. Kickstarting with an absolutely inspiring viewing of ‘Last Shop Standing’; a documentary based around the book written by Graham Jones. 

Upon entering Marlborough town hall for 7pm on the 17th, there was a buzz of authentic enthusiasm for the inspiration that goes into the production, and sustainability of record stores. The film itself gave a fab impression of the vibrance that surrounded the swinging 60s, 70s and 80s, along with the hilarious experiences of record selling novices of the day. As the film continued, the entire audience took a stroll down the memory lane of shop owners, sharing their experiences as the tragic reduction of stores dwindled to over 2000. Yet just as one was about to grab the tissues and whale in sorrow, a glimmer of light appears in the prospects of record stores as a culture. Like a Phoenix from the ashes, record stores have began to rise once again. 

As the film drew to a close a quick Q&A occurred, with a tone of enthusiastic ‘oldies’ raising their hands in contribution. Graham obviously loved the music and loved the culture that accompanies it within record stores - it suddenly made sense as to why parents had spent saturdays browsing through shelves of records: it was brilliant!

However one thing that evening was clear - we were missing. 

As the weekend continued onto Sunday 21st, a number of performers - Port Erin, Tallulah Rendall and Sound Knowledge’s very own Peter and the Mountains - entertained at Azuza. Each performer playing a set of astounding music, keeping the vibrance of the busy weekend flowing. 

Grabbing a chance to chat with one of the lovely Sound Knowledge crew, and asking about how the Saturday had gone for them (though it had been clear the place was packed upon investigating the day before), it seemed over two thirds of the specialist stock that had been delivered was sold. One of their busiest years yet! 

Talking with Tallulah it became clear she was passionate about her music, and even more so about how her music was heard: as a record. This women had turned down big offers in order to perform in the way she knew was right. Upon asking her “Why this was?”, the plucky Tullulah responded that “something so personal, something to be shared; it needs to be your own.” 

Later on towards the end of the day Port Erin played a set of upbeat, dreamy tunes, succeeding in getting the entire crown moving about in time to the beat, whilst enjoying the BBQ and browsing of records. Accompanying the almost ‘standard’ band (three guys: two guitarist and a drummer) was the addition of a brilliant saxophone player who apparently had come across the two brothers and their primary school friend from years ago, and asked to join. With this combination of lively jazz, it must be said these guys were awesome. They had performed at over 300 events and had the wonderful mix of fitting into the category of ‘dad band’, as well as open minded teens. 

However one thing that was clear throughout the event was the lack of a younger audience, it became obvious that all those who had this passion for authentic music were not going to be around forever. It seemed strange as it was almost like a mini festival, with the great bands and over priced food, yet sadly about 90% were over 30. 

Upon asking the Port Erin guys of their beliefs on the younger generations and supporting record stores, it became clear that they were so keen to inspire. 

There is no question as to whether this event will continue: it will! 

Visit this link to find out more info and use the Jobcentre Plus search tool!

Summer Solstice at Stonehenge will be celebrated once again this year on 20th - 21st June, on what is the longest day of the year. English Heritage is pleased to welcome the thousands of people who come to join in the peaceful celebrations but wishes to remind young people about 'The Conditions of Entry' which can be found on our website:
www.english-heritage.org.uk/summersolstice

English Heritage have a duty of care to all those who attend the Summer Solstice and it is important for children under the age of 16 to be accompanied by a responsible adult, otherwise they will not be allowed in. Groups of teenagers under the age of 16 who attach themselves to an unknown adult in order to gain entry, will also be refused entry. Parents will be called and asked to collect any unaccompanied children.

Young people are very welcome to attend the celebration, but please only come if you have a responsible adult with you to avoid disappointment.

After this performance, the second show of, 'Don’t feed the Animals,' by Jemma Kennedy was performed. This 30 minute story by different actors, from Wildern School, was about a circus in trouble, in desperate need of new talent. With no other choice the circus decide to let the local 'flaties' in town perform in the ring. The circus is saved, and the local school kids give a great show. The audience seems to enjoy this show just as much as the first, everyone leaving in a positive mood, proud and happy.

Overall, two great stories, brilliant actors, and creative writers pulled off two memorable performances.

To take part in a drama performance, or any short act, talk to your teacher or mentor, who may be able to organize a show to be performed at the playhouse in Salisbury.

Kelly Jordan, Sparksite Reporter

Well Done Pearl.

Short Video Inspired by The Trevor Project It gets better videos.  LGBT youth talking about their experiences 

Filmed, Directed and Edited By Pearl Neilson
Re-Synced Version

Dance FRESH is a fantastic performance platform allowing youth dance groups to perform at a professional venue in front of a live audience.  The event took place on Wednesday 20th March 2013 and featured over 12 dance groups performing to a packed audience. The project is part of the U Dance national initiative to involve young people in dance, and this has been the perfect opportunity to watch friends or family perform and to make links to new or existing dance groups in your area. Performances took place at 6.30pm & 8pm with support from Wiltshire Youth Arts Partnership and Salisbury Arts Centre. The event was a great chance to show case the high impact work of young dance groups across Wiltshire and the skill and expertise of artists and young people.

For further information contact: Wiltshire Youth Arts Partnership carrie.creamer@wiltshire.gov.uk

On Saturday 27 April just before 7:00pm Lucy and I arrived at The Pound, Corsham intrigued by the prospect of a modern adaptation of Shakespeare's well known story, The Tempest (widely believed to be his final play). ActNow 3 is a group of young actors who put on regular performances at The Pound. It was evident the cast had worked hard on encapsulating the essence of the original while still putting on a creative re-telling. Their talent and dedication was clear to all in the audience. The classical text made a job of understanding the meaning of certain lines but the challenging and powerful script was brought to life impeccably well by the cast.  

Another highlight of the show were the imaginative (and professional looking) costumes. Hilary is credited for her 'sewing skills' in the programme, and rightly so, the costumes were perfectly matched to each character, adding to the drama of the play.

The lighting and effects blended in cleverly with the show. Spotlights and the subtle use of music enhanced the show without stealing the scene. The projector was used to its full advantage, intensifying the characters occasional pre-recorded voice overs to ring in the ears of the audience.    

Are you 14 or over?

Like sharing your opinions?

Want to have a say on the way Wiltshire Council works with young people?

Said 'Yes' to any of the questions above? Then Young Commissioners could be the right group for you!

Young Commissioners are recruiting for their next group of 8 trainees to join them in helping to shape local policy as well as inputting on strategies and consultations for the Government nationally.

To be a Young Commissioner you will need:

• To be 14 or over and live in Wiltshire
• To be able to give up 3-4 hours of your free time a week, for at least 3 months, to attend regular training sessions and prepare work to bring along each week
• To be able to get on and work well with other people
• To be prepared to analyse and comment on documents that may not always be that exciting!
• To be committed
• To want to make a difference in the way young people are heled and supported by a range of different agencies

In exchange for your time and committment, as a Young Commissioner we offer you:

• A full 12 week training programme
• The option to work towards an ASDAN qualification if you would like to
• Free transport to and from all our meetings
• The chance to be consulted on new strategies that will impact children and young people before they 'go live' in Wiltshire
• The chance to review National Government policies and have your say on decisions that will affect children and young people throughout the UK
• The opportunity to be paid for the work you do when you have completed the training process 
• Free food!!

If you've got as far as reading this then you're who we want to hear from!!

As there are only a few spaces for this group you will need to fill in an application form to let us know why you think you'd be right for the job. Your statement is your chance to stand out from the crowd and will be the thing that helps our exisitng Young Commissioners decide who will be joining them this time around.

APPLICATIONS CLOSE ON: MONDAY 27TH MAY 2013

THE COURSE WILL START: JUNE 2013

 You can email your completed form to hayley.bambrough-bailey@wiltshire.gov.uk or print and post it to:

Hayley Bambrough-Bailey, The Bridge Centre, Bath Road, Chippenham, SN15 2AA

For more information you can call or text Hayley on 07760 353971 or drop her and email at the address above, or contact Damian Haasjes at damian.haasjes@wiltshire.gov.uk

 You can also find us on Facebook under Young Commissioners Wiltshire

By Mark Sanderson

If you are a young carer and would like to find out more about Salisbury Young Carers please email - winnie.manning@wiltshire.gov.uk

Also why not take a look at a national website - http://www.youngcarers.net/ for a bit more information about what's out there.....

To let the council know what you want and think you need to go into the Guildhall and complete a compliment slip as soon as possible.

Download the online comment slip here and all the plans as well.  Email your comments back to  - cstringer@salisburycitycouncil.gov.uk, the more detailed the better, please say why you either like or dislike the designs.

Have a look at all the PDF documents to see the plans.....

The next meeting of the Wiltshire Youth Disabled Group will be held on Tuesday 23rd April at Devizes Youth Centre. 

"We are a group of disabled young people who want to make a difference.  We get together once a month and talk about how we can make changes and create a better and safer place for disabled young people.  You can have your views listened to."

We always have pizza and food at the meetings!  If you would like to come along or find out more information please email voiceandinfluenceteam@wiltshire.gov.uk or ring Sonia on 01373 859485

Through working with bodies such as Wiltshire Council and Youth Advisory Groups (YAGs), I hope to effect change in local communiities for the majority and not just for the few. I also look forward to linking my work with WAY with the aims I hold as a member of the UK Youth Parliament, campaigning for initiatives such as a 'Curriculum for Life' that would see a more accessible, expansive and useful PSHE education in our schools.

Outside of WAY, I enjoy writing, going out into town and generally experiencing new things! In the future I hope to become a politician of some sort (or if this goal is too difficult to obtain, perhaps a teacher!)

I feel that working with WAY will give me invaluable experience in working with others to achieve a better future for all.    

I've been a young peopel's representative on Wiltshire Assembly of Youth (WAY) for four years, and am now in my second term on WAY.

As a WAY member, I sit on a variety of Baords and Panels for Wiltshire Council, for example the Children's Services Select Committee and the Stakeholder Partnership. I enjoy challenging decision makers and holding them to account for the actions they take. 

I joined WAY becasue I felt that young people were not represented enough in local and national decision making. 

My main goal is to improve the media image of young people.

I study at The Corsham School, taking History, Geography, English Lit and Psychology.

In my spare time I drive and generally chill with my mates.

MY BIG AMBITION: TO WORK FOR THE CIVIL SERVICE 

I have been a member of Wiltshire Assembly of Youth (WAY) for two years and I represent young people's views from the Wiltshire Youth Disabled Group (WYDG). At both of these forums we discuss the needs of disabled young people - like access to places, discrimination, crime and safety, and look at how we can make life better for them.

The reason I joined WAY is to create a better image of disabled young people and improve access to services and places.

I am interested in animals, my favourite are dolphins! I'm a member of the Girl Guides and I attend North Star College. My favourite colours are pink and blue.

In my spare time i work at Dominos Pizza, I like to go bike riding, go on facebook, play games on the Wii, go to Southbroom Centre Youth Club. I am a qualified young firstaider and im a Corporal for my St John's Ambulance division.

I once met Princess Anne in Buckingham Palace when I received an Award.

When I get older and complete college i want to be a support worker for people with disabilities like learning difficulties. 

MY BIG AMBITION: TO SWIM WITH DOLPHINS

In my spare time I play the piano and like spending time with my friends and family. I have also just started doing the Duke or Edinburgh Award and I'm a qualified Young Commissioner for Wiltshire. 

MY BIG AMBITION: TO JUST BE ME!!

The yr 10 GCSE dance students who attend St Johns School, told me some information about their piece; how they only just started practicing on Monday! With many of the teens family members there, they were all a little nervous, not to mention this was one of their first performances to a live audience. They used moves from their dance lessons, and choreography from each other, to create an artful piece, that gave a light, happy mood to the start of the show. They commented, that first impressions was important, so they wanted to get it perfect.

One 15 year-old said, 'Dancing is fun and scary but always has a good outcome.' Overall their nerves vanished, and their 4 minute act was fab, all the parents felt very proud.

Mapdance (stands for M.A. performance) performed next, their range of different choreographers, designers and technicians made each act of the show completely different from the last one, although some scenes felt rather depressing, the atmosphere from their dancing felt empowering. The slightest twitch or movement left some of the audience members confused, and others bewildered.

The eerie music mixed with the screams, jumps and lifts made your skin crawl, but made you love it even more. Half way through, the scene were they acted as men was a funny turn-around, adding humor to the performance. Although the start was slightly gloomy and the show itself was almost like a thriller than a dance show, you cannot doubt the brilliant way the dancers move. Every lift, every moment was perfectly timed, they definitely fitted well as a group. One of the dancers said, 'Purely for audience, it was the best performance.'

After the performance the girls told me a little about how they started and what their dancing is about.                

Most of the girls are university students, who study full time, and perform in the evenings. They all have dance degrees, and all auditioned for a part in Mapdance, with a large number of other auditioners across England. Each piece had a meaning, for example, Yales's piece is about undoing, which was adapted for the dance. And Charlie's piece is about the power of the mind, to achieve the impossible. Every piece had a new meaning and a different mood. Paul's piece was created within three days after the Christmas period, which had to be learned and mastered in no time. One dancer said that they were often told to: 'Keep the mind busy so the dancers think of nothing but the dance.' Which seems to work for them!

Mapdance are touring at the moment, their next performance will be in Kent, so if you live close by, I would try and get hold of a ticket before they become too popular! Below is a list of their tour dates and performances. Make a night out of it and let your feelings run wild, if you see this show, you'll find all other dance acts boring!

http://blogs.chi.ac.uk/mapdance/welcome/

 Kelly Jordan, Sparksite Reporter

I'm currently doing my GCSEs at Malmesbury School and I'd like to go to college and then on to university to study Animal Conservation.

In my spare time I play hockey, dance and sing. 

MY BIG AMBITION: TO TRAVEL THE WORLD.

My hobbies are dancing and I have a big love for Music.

My dreams for WAY are to change the way Young People are represented Via the Media. I would also like to change the amount of activities and services available to Young People in rural areas.

In the future I'd like to become either a dancer or a nurse. I'd like to live in Devon one day.

MY BIG AMBITION: TO MAKE IT BIG IN AMERICA! 

I joined WAY because I wamted to improve transport for young people, and to make sure young people are trated fairly. 

I am loud, a little bit crazy and have a good sense of humour. 

In my spare time I do Street Dance with a local group.

MY BIG AMBITION: TO BE A CHILDREN'S ENTERTAINER AT A HOLIDAY CAMP

MY FAVOURITE:

COLOUR - GREEN

ANIMAL - HORSE OR CAT

SUBJECT - ART OR MATHS (ANYTHING EXCEPT PE!)

FOOD - ANYTHING SPICY!

BOOK - THE FIRE WITHIN

HOBBY - READING

MY BIG AMBITION: TO TRAVEL TO CHINA 

I go to South Wilts Grammar school in Salisbury and I have just chosen my GCSEs. I have no idea yet what I'd like to do in the future, but I do know that I want to spend some time in Africa when I'm older.

I'm interested in anything musical or anything animal related!

In my spare time I sing and walk my dogs.

MY BIG AMBITION: TO GO TO AFRICA

I've been a Wiltshire Assembly of Youth (WAY) representative for a year and I'm just starting my second. I decided to stand for election to join WAY as I wanted to try and improve facilities for young people in and around the Chippenham area, as well as across the County. There are very few places that young people can meet in towns where they won't get moved on, and even in the the parks it's hard to find a place to just relax with your friends without feeling like people are judging you and wishing you weren't there! I didn't think this was fair, so I joined WAY so that I could give young people a voice. 

I'd like to become a primary school teacher when I finish education. 

I have a part time job and like to spend time with my friends when I get the chance.

MY BIG AMBITION: TO SUCCEED IN THE THINGS THAT MATTER TO ME.

In my spare time I enjoy designing websites. I also love anything to do with cars.

MY BIG AMBITION: TO BECOME A POLITICIAN AND BECOME PRIME MINISTER

I stood for election this year for North Wiltshire and was really pleased to win a seat. I also won a place as Deputy Member for North Wiltshire on the UK Youth Parliament (UKYP) where I represent young people from Wiltshire at a South West Regional level and also nationally. 

For my GCSEs I'm taking RE, History and DT Systems and Control.

I really want to stick to my election manifesto as much as I can in my time on WAY and UKYP.

You can staty up to date on what I'm doing by following me on Twitter @kieran_mulvaney or by emailing me at kieran.j.mulvaney@hotmail.com

MY BIG AMBITION: TO DO THINGS BETTER THAN THEY'VE BEEN DONE BEFORE!

At the moment I'm busy working on the new UKYP National Campaign - 'A Curriculum For Life' which aims to re-shape education in this country so that young people are better prepared for the real world when they leave school.

I joined WAY because I wanted a better understanding on how to get my voice, and other young people's voices, out there and making positive changes for young people living in and around Melksham (where I'm from). I'd like to see a better range of education options for young people in Melksham and I'd change how subjects are taught so that young people who aren't good at exams can still do well and get on in life. 

MY BIG AMBITION: TO PERSUADE MY PARENTS TO BUY A NEW HOUSE SO I CAN HAVE MY OWN ROOM!

In the future I would like to become a primary school teacher

However, recently experienced drivers seem to be forgetting that learners are new, scared and unconfident behind the wheel. These 'L plate drivers' are becoming more and more common, as younger people are more keen than ever to pass their tests, in the hope to get a car of their own.

In Chippenham, Wiltshire, large numbers of learners are practicing on the main roads, often in rush hour, trying to become better drivers. But people are becoming increasingly frustrated with learners, who can often stall at traffic lights, or go 20 miles an hour in a 30 zone.

Angry drivers become so impatient, they either overtake, beeping as they go, or tailgate to the point of unsafe, knocking new drivers confidence every time. To resolve these incidents, driving instructors often tell their pupils to ignore them, that they will become a much better driver than they ever will.

Being a learner myself, I find the more frustrated people around me get, the lower I feel about my driving. Its not rocket science, people should be a little more understanding that we all need to start from somewhere, which has to be on the road!

After getting upset over an angry driver I now tell myself, 'Calm down and relax.' There are the ones who should be patient, so don't ever feel like your in the way. Whether you are a learner or an experienced driver, everyone has a right to drive, so everyone should treat you equally.

So to all those learners out there, chill out, forget the idiots beeping and overtaking, they are obviously not a good driver. And to all the experienced drivers, angry or not, give us learners a break eh? Give them some time and space, and remember that that was you once, in the drivers seat of a car you've never been in, sacred as hell, a regular 'L plate driver'.

I would love to hear any experiences or questions about being an 'L pate driver.' If you have something to tell, comment below. There is also a few links below to help new drivers, and tips for your test.

http://www.2pass.co.uk/learn.htm

http://www.aronline.co.uk/blogs/blogs/blog-driving-in-the-uk-were-all-still-learners/

Kelly Jordan, Sparksite reporter

                The City Hall was completely sold out as hundreds of fans, largely made up of young people and a few confused parents, had bought tickets to such a well known band coming to a venue in a city which sees relatively few bands of such a genre and calibre pass through. The City Hall team themselves were painfully aware of the fact that they had no experience in holding such a gig, and so bought in a private security team, who despite quite a lot of bluster (including telling the fans of a band who hold the world record for crowd surfing that crowd surfing was strictly forbidden), did not manage to ruin the night at all.

                The first band playing was Tu Amore, a four piece from Petersborough, who played alternative rock, and showed off their new single, Speranza, which, the band were keen to point out, was a collaboration with Mallory Knox. They managed to work the crowd up amiably well, with a small mosh pit even breaking out for the first support act. The really notable part of the set, however, was the band inviting up a boy from the crowd, who claimed to be able to drum. Tu Amore’s frontman, Ben Mackerath, invited him to the stage for a short jam, in front of the whole of the City Hall.

                The second act was Hacktivist. Wildly different in style from Tu Amore, Hacktivist are a five person metal band. Their sound is an amalgamation of djent guitars, and dual front men J Hurley and Ben Marvin’s politically motivated rapping. It managed to get the whole of the City Hall shaking, both with the roaring bass and the force of a hundred old and new fans alike smashing into each other in the number of mosh pits and wall’s of death that appeared almost instantaneously. Those who already knew of Hacktivist, who have exploded onto the metal scene in the past year, threw their lyrics back at them in approval to the band. The two rappers occasionally got lost underneath the massive blasts of guitar, bass and drums, but no one really seemed to care, too lost in appreciating and being grateful for such a good band playing for them as a support to Enter Shikari.

                And if anyone thought Hacktivist was as wild as the crowd had energy to get that night, they were very much mistaken. As soon as Enter Shikari’s vintage countdown started, inviting them to refreshments, and consoling those who did not wear their best suits (a joke not lost on the crowd at all). Even when it only stated that there was upwards of ten minutes until the performance, those near the back of the hall surged forwards, creating a crush of bodies expectant for Enter Shikari’s set.

                Kicking off with a (relatively) calm System…, and then exploding into …Meltdown, Enter Shikari brought a whole new level to the gig, with a massive lightshow that would befit the Salisbury Cathedral fireworks.  The audience immediately spread into circle pits, mosh pits and contingents of ferocious bouncing, to let rip the energy provided by Enter Shikari’s sudden detonation of musical power. Each of the band’s songs were repeated back to them with a gigantic roar of hundreds of voices singing or screaming along to every word, even to their newest single, “The Paddington Frisk”.

                And the enthusiasm of the crowd was replied to by the band, as they bounded across the stage. Singer Rou Reynolds climbed on speakers and his synthesiser set up, and ended the concert by spinning round with an amp, and catapulting it across the stage. During the particularly well performed Ghandi, Mate, Ghandi, which included Reynolds being told to calm it by his band mates, in exact replication of the studio recording, the bassist Chris Batten, attempted a bass throw. He chucked his bass high into the air, and successfully caught it, which is more than most who attempt the move can say. However, he performed the rest of the song with blood flowing out of his eye, as his bass thumped into his face during the catch.

                The showmanship continued with Reynolds running round to the back of the City Hall, and performing a song from the top of the stacked up tiered seating, leaning over a sheer drop to those nearer to the back, causing a brief relaxation in the mosh pits, as people turned around to look at him.

                A note on mosh pits. In the unlikely event that someone outside of this music scene had read this far, then they may have trouble understanding this concept. The moshing is defined by Google as: “Dance(ing) to rock music in a violent manner involving jumping up and down and deliberately colliding with other dancers.” Which sums it up quite nicely. But what is left out by this definition is the idea of respect in a pit, one of which the Salisbury audience. If you were knocked down, an instant barrier formed between you and the rest of the pit, as complete strangers struggled to help you back onto your feet. After which you all returned to trying to smash into each other at high speeds.

                The whole evening was insane. Tu Amore performed incredibly well for the first support act, Hacktivist blew the roof off, and Enter Shikari blew everybody’s minds out with it.

• Craft Apprentice with Babcock Integrated Technology Ltf
• Technical Apprenticeship with Babcock Integrated Technology Ltd
• Apprentice Sales Office Administrator with Dreamworks Beds
• Apprentice Upholsterer with Dreamworks Beds
• Apprentice IT Support Engineer with Blue Sky Computing Ltd

Download the document to find out more information about these opportunities.

If people want to have their say in these important elections and haven’t already registered they need to complete a registration form and make sure it is received by the council no later than April 17.

You can also vote by postal voting. If people wish to have a postal vote in these elections and haven’t already done so they need to apply and send the form back by 5pm on April 17.

If people haven’t yet registered to vote or wish to see other key election dates and information they should visit www.wiltshire.gov.uk/unitaryandparishelections The electoral services team can also be contacted on 0300 456 0112.
 

Right now, the government is considering dropping climate change from the national geography curriculum. Join the thousands of people who have already taken action.

Teaching about climate change is crucial to ensuring a new generation of young people understand and are able to be leaders on climate change, taking action to protect the environment and human life.

Tell Michael Gove, Secretary of State for Education, and Ed Davey, Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, to keep climate change in the curriculum. - Follow the link and you can send an email to the Government, we have been told that if they receive a large volume of letters on this issue them they will amend their decision....

Help keep climate change in everyone lives!  Click here to find out more

Thursday 28^th March was the last day of the Easter holiday Music Matters course, in Grosvenor House, in Salisbury. On that day, 8 people were at Grosvenor House, and it was, I was told, unusually quiet for the last day of the course, sadly due to two people having to call in sick.

Music Matters workshops take place throughout Wiltshire, for young people of the ages 13-19. They teach music, and allow teenagers to develop existing skills, and also to learn new ones, from production to song writing and lyric crafting to playing an instrument. The young person goes to Music Matters, with an idea of what they want to achieve in mind, and then this is facilitated by the Music Leaders, who include young people who have experience doing Music Matters courses. They are also aided out by professional musicians, who help to lead the course, and give constructive advice throughout.

I started the day by being introduced to each of the groups working towards a final performance of their music, and also by being walked around Grosvenor House itself. In each room of the house, the young people were supplied with sufficient amps, a drum kit, and a PA system and mixer for microphones. However, only two of these kitted out rooms were occupied; two groups were using larger rooms for acoustic and electronic music making.

I started off by talking to Jack and Rory, who were making children’s lullabies on a laptop, helped by a microphone and a MIDI keyboard. All of the equipment, from the outboard speakers to the software on the computer (Apple’s Logic, although there was also access to Ableton Live if it was wanted), was professional quality and standard, and their music reflected that.

Jack and Rory, who have been attending Music Matters for 6/7 years, decided to do something different this year, and, inspired by the music of “They Might Be Giants”, created two songs, a “space pirate” song, called “Here Come the Pirates”, and a minimalist, progressive piece called “Clockwork Lullaby”, when I first walked into their room. I watched them for a while, changing minute details such as the ratio of reverb on the vocals, and ironing out slightly awry notes in a flute solo, to create the slick audio they managed to produce, assisted by Niell. Later in the day, I watched them record multi-tracks for a third song they had written that morning – “Where Did All the Pigeons Go?”.

The next group I met where Courtney, Sylvia and Harry, three people recording a cover of a cover – they were covering Nirvana’s take on Bowie’s “The Man Who Sold the World”. They spoke to me more about Music Matters as a whole: they told me of how it brings people “together to make music”, due to “everyone (having) a common interest”.

Upstairs was Morgan, who performed an original, chilled rap called “Still Missing”. He not only wrote the rap, but also the backing, and the beat to it. It was at this point that I really saw the relationship between the young people and the Music Leaders –Joe O, a music leader, was watching Morgan practising, and also collecting the final mix of the recorded song. Together, the young people and the Music Leaders create good work, and great music – everything I saw of the staff and the young people working together was entirely positive, and yielded brilliant results.

Joe was also standing in on bass for Harry and Elkanah’s instrumental metal piece, a very loud and very heavy song showing off Elkanah’s talent on guitar, and Harry’s drumming prowess.

During the lunch break, I had a quick chat with Niell, the professional musician who was mentoring and assisting in the creation of music. He has run workshops all over the country, and told me he got into Music Leading because he “wants to encourage everyone to enjoy making music”, and to help people break through the barrier of not being a professional, or not having the money to buy high quality equipment.

Overall, this was a positive day, and Music Matters seems to be a positive and inspiring experience for all. It has even gone as so far to persuade me to look into trying out a session myself – it looks a worthwhile course to take part in.

LGB&T young people talk about how it feels to be gay, and the impact on them of homophobic language. They are busting myths as part of the the ZeeTee Campaign. This is promoting zero-tolerance of homophobic language and behaviour in Wiltshire secondary schools through showing this 8 minute film and distributing 'Respecting Difference' wristbands.

We'll be having a bake sale, plenty of tea (along with some coffee if you prefer). As well as some information, fun activities, raffle and other tea party inspired lovelies.

Come and join us to help raise awareness of Ovarian cancer with the eve appeal, as well as raising money for Melksham Youth Centre. (There'll be a 50/50 split of all profit)

Listen to the Spark Podcast of the Event  to hear what it was like and maybe hear yourself again.Podcasts are located on the home page or copy and paste this link.

http://www.podcast.canstream.co.uk/spark/admin/index.php?page=record2&do=edit&id=17

• abuse in relationships is not normal or acceptable – if you are in an abusive relationship it’s not your fault and you do not have to stand for it
• it’s not just physical violence, like punching or kicking, that makes a relationship abusive – if you are threatened with violence, have no say over what you wear or who you see or speak to, or are constantly criticised it is sill abuse
• abuse is never OK – blaming abuse on anger, jealousy, alcohol or the other person’s behaviour is not acceptable
• help is available – if you need some support getting out of an abusive relationship or just want to talk to someone visit www.direct.gov.uk/thisisabuse

If you are or know someone who is living with the affects of domestic abuse, please speak out and seek support, call the National Domestic Abuse Helpline 0808 2000 247 (freephone in partnership with Women’s Aid and Refuge) or www.speakoutwiltshire.com in an emergency please call 999.

For more information check out the dedicated website - www.direct.gov.uk/thisisabuse

I would hate to spoil the play for anyone who would get the chance to see it in the future, although I can say that I highly recommend you doing this, if you get an opportunity. The play is centered around the transformation of an Odditorium, an almost circus-like show, along with a transforming audience. Yet, this is challenging for the characters, being a show made up of those who physically cannot change their nature,  such as a pair of siamese twins, a lady with no arms and a hemaphrodite. It contrasts the tensions, as those who before were at the bottom of the “freak-show” pile. Those who are described as not being “real” (for example, Tiny, a fat man), find it easiest to become normal, and so become the new stars of a show based around the idea of hope, and transformation, whilst those who were once the stars of an old show based around rarities and oddities, cannot transform, and so are placed at the bottom of the hierachy. It also shows the transformation of the leader of the Odditorium, Riley, from the loving, kindly saviour of his troupe to a man who will do anything he must, even throw his old main act from the troupe, to keep it afloat.

The play is comprised of 6 characters, played by seven actors. These are Riley, the leader of the Odditorium (played by Craig Phelps), George/Georgina, a heaphrodite, and Riley’s right hand (Julia Hardcastle), Marketa, a bearded, armless lady (Beth Hopkinson), Lillie and Mille, siamese twins (Hannah Waterfall and Megs Slark respectively), and Serena, a mute mermaid act (Iona Johnson).

The play was performed in the rehearsal room of the Playhouse, which proved to be a mixed blessing. On the one hand, this created a real sense of intimacy with the characters, as we were sitting within metres of them. They still, however, managed to maintain a professional air, and a seperation from the audience, which a play of this form deserved.

However, the draw back to the rehearsal room was the roof. Being made for rehearsals, the room is not soundproofed against the weather, so when it started hailing, we could hear every last drop. At first I thoughout this was a sound effect, as did many of the audience, from listening to their mutterings in the interval, however it soon became so loud it was almost drowning out the actors on stage.

The actors themselves suffered from a slightly slow, and maybe even awkward start, however I do think that, their performance was exemplary. Tiny stood out from the beginning as a character performed especially well, with his breakdown being a heart-string pulling acting highlight of the performance. Serena also performed incredibly well, especially given the restrictions her character put upon her – Serena is, for the majority of the play, mute. However, conversations between her and the others, namely the Marketa and Lillie, and the play on the half-understanding of the other characters, never seemed clunky, and Serena stayed always expressive. The rehearsal process going into the creation of these characters was described as “very smooth” and “fluid”, and it showed, especially in the little details, such as the flowing movement of the two Siamese twins, Millie and Lillie, and the skill and determination Marketa showed in the ability to use her feet for everyday tasks.    

What was in the performance space, however, was very impressive. The set, designed by Hayley Spicer, was empty, apart from some rocks and grass, and a large, elaborate circus caravan sat in the middle of the stage. The large red box had vintage projections being played onto it as we walked in, onto a white screen. But, a little while into the play, the white screen was lifted, showing a stunningly furnished room filled with memorabilia of the age.

The projections themselves added a further layer to the experience of the play. Masterminded by Dave Orme, the play’s AV Designer, these multi-media aspects served to set the scene, show the otherwise un-presentable parts of Riley’s dream, and to horrify and stun.

The cast, led by director Vic Briggs, produced a well formed and well told story. Being backed up by hard work and extensive research into their characters, they managed to portray the nuances of this emotionally heavy play incredibly well, and kept alive the reputation of Stage ’65 as a youth theatre which creates plays well worth seeing.

You are invited to a Business Breakfast to showcase Wiltshire Have a Go Skills Exhibitions during National Apprenticeship Week 11 March – 15 March 2013

  14 March 2013 – Trowbridge Civic Centre, 7.30am registration for 8.00pm start

 The National Apprenticeship Service and Wiltshire employers will speak about the benefits apprentices bring to business and the help you might be able to access.

 You can speak to Wiltshire employers and training providers who will be giving young people from Wiltshire’s schools year 11,12 & 13 college students and others looking for work and training, the chance to ‘Have a Go’ at skills needed in various trades and professions.

 To secure your place, go to http://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/haveagobusinessbreakfastform.htm

There were loads of stalls with future job oppotunities there. It would have been nice to have some stuff about becoming a teacher, but they did have loads of other bits.

I'd recommend it as something to do as it has really shown me all the different opportunities that are available.

If you want more info on apprenticeships come down to Canberra (Melksham Youth Centre) and check out our jobs board; along with local openings we've also got a whole board dedicated to the information from the event.

Crowd funding is a way of giving small amounts of money to a good cause.

Support us by visiting 

www.salisburyfestival.co.uk 

OR 

http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/salisbury-live-2013

If you would like more information or would like to get involved with our fundraising for 2012 then please contact WYAPinfo@wiltshire.gov.uk

The audience were practically in tears, with some of her hysterical jokes like, “I come to Wiltshire, and there’s these one-footed Pigeons everywhere! Is there a one-footed bird theme going on?”

The locals seems more than happy with her performance, one member of the audience mentioned, “We live locally, and don’t get to see many stand-ups, so its nice to see a comedian that gave it a personal touch.”

Zoe Lyons herself said she loves the area, with friends close by, and at the end of the performance whispers into her microphone, “Your much nicer than Bath!”

For an exclusive interview before the performance, we asked Zoe about her past, and how she got into comedy:

Hi Zoe, how are you feeling? ‘Hi, I’m looking forward to tonight’s performance.’

Can I ask, where did you grow up as a child? ‘I’ve moved around a lot of places but I grew up in Ireland.’

At what age did you know you wanted to become a comedian? ‘I knew at 20. But it took me until I was 29 to get there. Its a hard subject to get into but its worth it now.’

How long have you been performing? ‘Stand up for 10 years now. I was 30 when I started. I went to university when I first got into comedy.’

You perform in a lot of City’s. What made you decide to perform in Corsham? ‘My agent booked it! But I like the area, I have friends that live close by.'

Who inspires you? Your Idol? ‘Eddie Izzard is my main idol. Billy Connolly was as a kid.’

Where do you get your jokes from? ‘Most of them are true stories. The rest of its random stuff. Stuff mixed with recent news to build a funny joke.’

What’s it like being on TV? ‘Its Bizarre! Almost disposable these days.. to be on TV 30 years ago would be an incredible thing, its more common now, but its amazing.’

Do your friends and family often watch you perform? ‘My mum often watches me. But not when I'm on tour.’

When your not performing what do you like to do? ‘Go running. I recent ran the half marathon in Brighton last week, I love it.’

What’s the best gig you’ve ever performed at? ‘Thats a hard one... The Brighton Komedia. The crowd are awesome there, and its my home town.’

Where do you hope to see yourself in 10 years? ‘Not a clue! Hopefully still performing.’

Are you on tour at the moment? ‘Yes. Wednesday in Edinburgh is my next performance.’

Zoe’s performance was definitely worth watching, if you have a chance to see her on tour, I would  recommend getting hold of a ticket! Below is a link of Zoe’s tour dates, overall a great performance, by great comedian.

http://www.zoelyons.co.uk/gigs/

Kelly Jordan, Sparksite Reporter

Each week will see new contenders that you the listening audience vote on who you want to hear play a full 20min set the following week.

First up is Salisbury's "Things Behind The Sun" and emerging talent 8.05.

Tune in on Spark Radio to listen and vote.

i enjoyed going to the devizes youth club on the tuesday to help out with there bridging project.

i enjoyed watching oz the great and powerfull with network on friday.

Well done to all involved!

The grants will be awarded from the balance of the funds raised during the Mayor's Appeal in 2011/12; John Abbott has asked the Rose Gale Trust to administer the applications on his behalf.

WHAT THE GRANTS ARE FOR - Grants we make are intended to support young people who are contributing to their community.  We interpret the idea of community in a wide manner - for example community could be:

• doing work in the community (e.g. clearing waste land, repainting village hall etc.)
• getting equipment for a group (e.g. scouts, local club)
• taking a group on a trip (e.g. day trip, theatre trip)
• running or helping with an event (e.g. fete, dance).

To help you further, we will give examples of the work we have supported as we make grants.

APPLYING FOR A GRANT - Applicants must:

• be aged between 13 and 25 years
• demonstrate a benefit to a community in the SP post code areas
• need between £100 and £200.

To apply for a grant, please download and complete an application form and return your completed application to Salisbury Mayor's Appeal 2011/12 at the address given on the form; a decision may take up to one month so allow adequate time for us to receive your application before you need the grant.  We will not reimburse any money already spent so please do not commit to spending until you hear from us.

We will review all applications at the beginning of each month and advise all applicants as soon as possible afterwards.  

Wiltshire Youth Services Council is running a one off fund for young people.  There are grants for young people’s programmes, projects and capital items up to £1,500.  The forms are attached and all the guidelines are there but key things are:

• The grant forms must be completed by young people and supported by a Wiltshire voluntary sector group or organisation.
• Any amount of money is available up to £1,500.
• Closing date is 5.00 pm on Friday 12 April 2013.
• Successful applications must have someone available to attend the WYSC AGM on the evening of Thursday 23 May to collect their cheque.

If you have any questions or queries please contact Damian Haasjes on 01380 826526 or email damian.haasjes@wiltshire.gov.uk

Here is a compilation of all the groups and projects that were nominated for an award.

Enjoy the video!

I'm Josh and i am from Melksham

Your Thoughts On Spark Radio?

Everytime i broadcast whether its live or a practice its ten out of ten

Turn Ons.......

I love talking to the listeners on Spark Radio, recording music albums, playing music, acting, writing stories, cooking, making films and animations, telling jokes, drawing clocks and eating pizza.

Turn Off's......

I hate sprouts , mushrooms and pink things

Catch Josh 3-4pm Weds Live On Spark Radio

Oak Film Club had put together some 1 minute dramas which were shown on a large screen along with interviews from some of the Olympic torch bearers. If thirst or hunger got the better of you, Neverland Café was available to fulfil your needs decorated with fairy lights and treasure chests in the style of Peter Pan.

Melksham TV had come to the event in order to cover their first ever film festival. We interviewed them about things that they are currently doing and what they plan to do in the future. Melksham TV was started a year ago, they go to events and make videos about the events. Bath.TV is also being launched very soon with a similar idea. Melksham TV attended some of the other activities going on during the week at the Film Festival.

http://www.melksham.tv/

Deciding to have sex for the first time, or anytime, is an important decision to make. You don’t have to have sex because your friends are, you don’t have to have sex because your partner wants to. It’s your choice when to have sex and who you have sex with, nobody else’s.

Before you have sex you should make sure you have thought about contraception. Condoms are the only contraception that can help prevent sexually transmitted infections. Using both a contraceptive method like the pill, or implant, as well as condoms will protect you from both pregnancy and help prevent you catching an STI.

Go and talk to someone at No Worries! No Worries! is what we call young people’s sexual health services in Wiltshire. No Worries! services are available through GPs, pharmacies, schools and colleges, and the youth service. Wherever you go, we have tried to get somebody who can help to support you with your sexual health and choices around relationships and contraception.

To find your local No Worries! provider go to www.nhs.uk/Livewell/Sexandyoungpeople

we r kat + ur5 reppin salz
 
Your thoughts on Spark Radio..... 
 is mad sik, playin grimey beats all day every day (8)
 
Turn ons........ 

Adventure Time
 

Getting high...grades in our gcse's :)

Turn offs.......  


Excessive Body Hair

Fav Music...... 

Enter the Ninja by Die Antwoord

Bump N Grind - R Kelly

Fav Quotes.........

Catch the Girls Live On Air Tuesdays 7-8pm

The guys also jumped on air and took over the air waves presenting their own shows. The whole week was a lot of fun with a serious message.

Listen to the podcast here or click on the podcast Icon on the Sparksite Front Page (Bottom right Hand Corner Of Home Page)

http://www.podcast.canstream.co.uk/spark/index.php?id=16

On Saturday 23 February at 7:30pm the doors of the The Pound's auditorium opened and welcomed in an audience intrigued by the mysterious Black Fish project, 'Alaska', promising an 'interactive, inspirational seminar'. But did it live up to that?
 
Alaska is the story of a man's (Justin) journey in learning to stand on his own two feet accounting his adventure as he goes to the 'camera'. The play is formatted as a video diary meant for his brother in hospital, with an ironic twist in the second half explaining why he is there. In addition to Justin's narration a doctor brings the audience along for the ride with flair, transforming into Justin's hardened, Alaskan companion, Babe, when needed. The double act started off by teasing the audience with flashes of what was to come; cries of "my tears have frozen", "they're all dead... and I killed them all" and "bye guys, see you in four weeks" rung out in between the rewinding of the entire performance.     

The 'Big Freeze' forces Justin to survive on his own in the wilderness and he eventually comes out on top in the battle against nature (nature concedes to a draw) accidently avenging Babe's brother's death while he's at it. Or "that b****** bear that ate my brother whole". A few suprises pop up along the way causing ripples of laughter from the audience including a miraculous recovery of a lost digit, advertising of Pinny nuts (which may in fact, include traces of nuts), a moose fur, a ukulele and an extract of 50 Shades of Grey thrown in for good measure. The 'interactive' aspect of the play was encapsulated for me in two single moments. The first was when a wild cat, bat and salt pig controlled by a fishing rod and string hybrid contraption were offered to the audience. *cue roars of laughter* The second was my personal favourite, an interesting interpretation of the Northern Lights. Coloured torches were distributed throughout the audience and we were all told to mimick the iconic scene of magnificient swirling lights or Justin would not make it across the mountain ravine.    

A special mention has to go to the lighting/ music and effect team of two hiding at the back of the theatre truly bringing the performance to life. The soundtrack was the perfect partner to the action and a combination of smoke, spotlights and shadows bring the play right into the laps of the audience, creating another dynamic completely.

You can see what other performances, events and workshops are going on at The Pound, Corsham here: www.poundarts.org.uk or by calling their box office on this number: 01249 701628.

You can also check out Black Fish here: http://makinprojects.co.uk/page10.html

I leave you with the defining words from the play, "If Justin can do it, anyone can".

On Saturday the 23rd of February Robyn and I took a trip down to The Pound Arts Centre in Corsham.

A microphone announced the auditorium open and all audience members took their seats. Teddy bears could be seen hanging from wires, sleeping bags wrapped round tent poles. We weren’t entirely sure what to expect. The narrator described Alaska as an ‘interactive, inspirational seminar,’ which little did we know, we were going to be involved in.

Alaska describes the outrageous experiences of Justin, who aspires to journey into the deepest, darkest areas of Alaska, away from industrialisation and civilization, alone with nature. He tells his story to the camera which on return he plans to give to his brother John who lies in hospital.  So many things occur during Justin’s trip however, Babe, a native Alaskan is on hand to assist along the way. As Justin nears the end of his stay, an accident takes place that prevents him from returning to his normal life.

During the second act, ‘A Big Freeze’ transpires. With his knowledgeable friend Babe around this would’ve been a piece of cake to survive yet Babe was nowhere to be seen. Would there be any hope for Justin? He fought his way through courageously; trying everything he could to stay alive whilst avenging Babe’s brother along the way.

A particular favourite part of mine, was the interactive section where I was handed a fishing rod with a small ‘wild cat’ on the end and asked to wave it about a bit. As more and more rods were handed out more people began laughing. Coloured torches were also handed out to create a Northern Lights theme to encourage Justin, which I thought was a brilliant, clever idea.

Well done to the performers and the lighting/sound crew for putting on such an unforgettable show!

Check out Black Fish here: http://makinprojects.co.uk/page10.html

Visit The Pound Arts Centre for more performances like this: www.poundarts.org.uk

Salisbury 5-9pm

Monday: Bea, Kerin, Abbey, Karina
Tuesday: Bea, Kerin , Abbey, Niamh

Chippenham 5-9pm

Wednesday: Bea, Kirstie, Bekka, Emily
Thursday: Bekka, Emily, Robert

To all those who have worked super hard in Calne (you know who you are!) to get the project were we are today. Thank you!

One last think. Whatever you ride whatever the journey ride hard, dream big, go big and hit the lip!!! 

1970 First ever organised lesbian and gay pride march took place on 28 June in New York City commemorating the previous year’s Stonewall riot.

1971 First gay march through London took place, ending with a rally in Trafalgar Square, protesting against the unequal age of consent for gay men.

1988 Section 28, preventing the ‘promotion’ of homosexuality by local authorities, came into force on 24 May with backing from Local Government minister Michael Howard. 10,000 protested in London and 15,000 in Manchester.

1989 Stonewall Group set up to oppose Section 28 and other blocks to equality for lesbians and gay men. Founder members include Ian McKellen and Michael Cashman.

1993 - Stonewall launched first challenge to the European Court of Human Rights on the age of consent with three gay teenagers aged 16 - 18; Hugo Grennhalgh, Will Parry and Ralph Wild.

1995 - Gay Times went on sale in high street stores owned by the John Menzies newsagents chain for the first time in May. Biggest ever London Pride - almost 200,000 people attended the celebrations in the East End's Victoria Park. First Lobby on the Sexual Offences Discrimination Bill.

1998 - On 22 June the British House of Commons voted to set the age of consent for gay men at 16 in a debate on the Crime and Disorder Bill. Nick Brown MP became the first British Cabinet minister to come out publicly as gay while in post.

1999 - Over 30,000 Stonewall supporters returned ‘Repeal Section 28’ postcards addressed to Hilary Armstrong MP.Repeal of Section 28 included in the Local Government Bill.

2000 - Government lifts the ban on lesbian and gay men serving in the armed forces.

2001 - Age of consent reduced to 16.

2002 - Equal rights granted to same sex couples applying for adoption.

2003 - Repeal of Section 28. Employment Equality (Sexual Orientation) Regulations became law on 1 December making it illegal to discriminate against lesbians, gay men and bisexuals in the workplace.

2004 - Civil Partnership Act passed in November, giving same-sex couples the same rights and responsibilities as married heterosexual couples.

2009 - Stonewall celebrates 20th anniversary. The Equality Bill is introduced to Parliament in April 2009, with important implications for sexual
orientation equality.

2010 - Stonewall releases 'FIT', the first ever film for schools to tackle homophobic bullying. Stonewall saw the successful passing of the Equality Act 2010 which included the extension of the single public Equality Duty to cover lesbian, gay and bisexual people. The Government’s Schools White Paper acknowledges the work of the Education for All campaign and encourages all schools to tackle homophobic bullying.

In this video the WAY & UKYP 2013 Candidates talk about Sex Education and talk about when they think it is the right time to start learning about sex.

See how we did!

Check out our work and see what we achieved :)

Here is WAY & UKYP WEST CANDIDATE Jordan Green in a short video talking about Government Spending

Here is WAY & UKYP EAST CANDIDATE Charles McGrath in a short video talking about Health.

Here is WAY & UKYP EAST CANDIDATE Aodhan Burnell in a short video talking about Things to Do.

The 50p charge will be made for the following sessions: 21 Club (Monday & Wednesday evenings), Bridging Project (Tuesday evening), Thursday Night Project & Saturday Cafe. The Thursday Job Club & Devizes School lunch club will continue to be free.

The money will be held separately and young people will get a say in what it is spent on.

Please read the full statement in the centre or attached to this article.

Here is WAY & UKYP WEST CANDIDATE James Davies in a short video talking about Transport.

Here is WAY & UKYP EAST CANDIDATE Josh Comstable in a short video talking about The Media.

Here is WAY & UKYP NORTH CANDIDATE Kieran Mulvaney in a short video talking about Jobs.

Here is WAY & UKYP EAST CANDIDATE Sam Gallacer in a short video talking about The Voice of Vulnerable Young People.

Here is WAY & UKYP NORTH CANDIDATE Hannah Kamphaug in a short video talking about Safety.

Check out their photos which are amazing....

The Winners were:-

Skate Boarders: James Threlfall (19) & Jacob Box (17)

BMX: Chris Massey (19) & Tom Flay (17)

Scooters: Arlo Stubbs (13) & Ryan Oakes (14)

The panoramic shot was taken by Underground Extreme Sports - one of the sponsors.....

The evening opened with an impressive Parkour performance from Calne Parkour followed by a dance performance and a beautiful original song from Liz Wilson as well as a cover (Mayday Parade) where Liz encouraged the audience to join in. The Group award was then presented by Councillor Laura Mayes and more exciting performances followed. Another dance act and an entertaining few songs from Joe O before the Partnership award presented by Carolyn Godfrey. Then one of my personal highlights of the evening, the buffet! The chocolate brownies were amazing!

The second half began with the Individual award presented by Fiona Fitzpatrick and then more performances from two dance acts. Followed by the Inclusion award presented by Mal Mundy and a final performance from the band 'Things behind the Sun'.

And finally, to round off the evening a DJ accompanied by a packed dance floor played and danced until the end.   

Wiltshire UKYP & WAY Election FINAL RESULTS!

Voting lines are now CLOSED!

Votes updated: 11th February 2013 

 The FINALresults of the WAY & UKYP Elections 2013 are in! 

CONGRATULATIONS TO EVERYONE ON SOME REALLY AMAZING RESULTS WITH 32,198 YOUNG PEOPLE VOTING ACROSS THE COUNTY!

 Details of all of your local WAY & UKYP representatives and how to contact them will be coming to Sparksite very shortly.

We had a great time! Dancing, munching and the acts were great too! Thanks to everyone who organised it fab!!!

We are one of the first groups to arrive, and  we spend twenty minutes standing in the foyer, sipping on drinks, and watching the lobby slowly fill up, and grow gradually louder and more frantic. Straight in front of us is one of the many dance troupes warming up, and to our right young people from all over the county, mixing and socialising, along with two boys, conspicuous due to their suits and microphones, talking frantically to each other.

 I start talking myself, to one of the girls circling the large mass of bodies still filling up the room. She is Becky Bignold, from Trowbridge itself. It turns out that she is nominated for the Individual Award, for her contributions to the Trowbridge Youth Advisory Group, and her involvement in “the arts” around Trowbridge. Her mood is summed up in one word from her, which goes with the buzzing atmosphere of the whole lobby – really quite “excited”.

I walk into the large, heavily ballooned, main room of the event.  Apart from the aforementioned columns of white table filling up a good two thirds of the room, each table supplied with large jugs of iced squash and water and a light up popcorn tree (don’t ask), the only other remarkable part to the room is the large stage. To the left are a drum kit, guitar, and various amplifiers and microphones. The promise of musical entertainment rings true.

In the centre of the stage is a more intriguing affair. There are two gymnasts’ horses, surrounded by blue safety mats. To the left of these are three busy figures hunched over a mixing desk, performing a sound check. I start talking to one of the security guards, wandering around the room. He tells me that they are expecting up to 350 people to turn up, to witness the ceremony. It strikes me that not only is this ceremony designed to celebrate young people, and their achievements, but it is celebrated by these young people, and their friends and companions, to create an event of magnitude, recognising both the winners and nominees, but also those supporting them.

This is backed by the words of Damien Haasjes, who stresses to me that this event is not about finding young people who excel in all areas. It is all about “finding young people who are sustained in giving to help other young people”.

It all starts with an address from the councillor Lionel Grundy, who tells about the aims of the ceremony – to “showcase young people’s talent”, and to “recognise young people’s growth”. This seems to be a sentiment that is repeated throughout the evening. The comparison is not on one person vs. another. It is a comparison on where you started from, and where you are now, and those who have made a concerted effort to improve themselves, or help others to do so, are the ones rewarded. This is, at least for me, one of the most heart warming points of an evening filled with such moments. This attitude presented here is wonderful, in all of its forms.

The first award is the group award, presented by Laura Mayes – the Group Award. Awarded to groups of young people who have worked to succeed in their chosen aims, which are as various as the people being presented the award itself. The special mention goes to CAYPIG, Marlborough. This is a group of young people who wished to refurbish a local skate park. They have managed to raise £500 so far, and received the mention for their “commitment and dedication” in this pursuit. The winners are the National Citizen Service, from North & South Wiltshire, who are described as “stunning”.

The award presented after this is the Partnership Award. This is for volunteers who have “gone the extra mile” for young people. It is presented by Carolyn Godfrey, the Director for Youth and Education in Wiltshire, who later told me that it was “fantastic to see so many achievers”, and “congratulations to all the young people involved”. The special mention went to Holt Youth Club, who raised money to employ new staff, and worked together in an excellent way. The winners (name) were a group of young people who worked to earn leisure credits, used for day trips and driving lessons, etc. They told me afterwards that they “work in the community to do the jobs that need doing”, for example, fixing paths and benches.

The award that follows is the Individual Award, for young people who have excelled through individual efforts. It is presented by Mal Mundy. The special mention is Chloe Orr, who “helps with the Trowbridge Bridging Project”, and is described as an “absolute star”. The winner, however, is Jazz Breakspear. She is a “totally reliable” volunteer, and is always willing to help, and also “instrumental in good ideas and initiatives”.

The last award is the Inclusion Award. This is also presented by Mal Mundy, and is for “individuals and groups who are constantly contributing to an air of inclusiveness”. He also added that “all (of the nominees)… are brilliant projects”. The special mention went to GOGS, an LGBT group, who “work across their area to support young (LGBT) people”. They have spent time and money creating materials, some of which is now used by Ofsted to train teachers. The winner is the Children in Care Council, who created a “Welcome to Care” DVD, which is now shown to all young people entering care across Wiltshire. They have also worked to put the “Leaving Care Grant” up by £500, to £2000.

 The Event, however, is not just awards. Interspersed within the celebrations of young people, there are bands and dance troupes performing, to showcase the artistic talents of Wiltshire, all presented by the two suited boys with microphones. They introduce themselves as Damien and Josh, and are our “Young Presenters” throughout the evening. I talk to them later, and they tell me that it is “fantastic to accept this brilliant opportunity”, and that they are so into the show, they are “sat in the wings watching” it all happen.

The first act is Calne Parkour. After an extended build up, two guys run onto the stage, and perform jumps and leg raises, before being joined by two other boys, creating a scene of young people of all ages jumping and twisting over the two horses. They all felt really proud of their performance, and enjoyed pointing out to me that they made “no mistakes” and also how fun the experience was.

The next act is Jigsaw, the first of many dance troupes throughout the night. They perform a brilliant piece, showing off the talent of all of the young people in the group. They are accompanied by a low bass soundtrack, mixing in ambient noise and acoustic guitar.

Next up is Liz Wilson, the first musical act of the night. She performs two songs, a cover and an original, of such quality that even the sound technician is poking his head around the curtain at the back of the stage to watch. She finishes her last song with a mass sing-along. Liz says that she found The Event “really, really fun” to play to, an attitude reflected by the crowd accompanying her walk off stage with uproarious applause.

The fourth performance is by the Westbury Pop Dance Group. The group is acclaimed for their acceptance of young people with disabilities, shown by the four live dancers performing alongside a DVD of the rest of their group, who could not turn up.

Joe O is the next to take to the stage. He plays guitar and sings, with his drummer, Alex. He enters the stage declaring that the whole audience must do the jazz hands, which the Civic Centre takes up with unbowed enthusiasm. He then performs an original number, before going on to push Music Matters, a Wiltshire wide music group, which is, as he puts it “the way forwards”. This is also the way Liz Wilson got into performing at events such as these, and the organisation narrowly misses out on the Partnership Award.

After Joe, and the buffet (which is described as “lush”), are the Durrington Pop Dance Group, who perform an elegant routine, which is, as the presenters declared, “fantastic”. They are later presented with their Bronze Arts Awards for their commitment to dance. Then, the Tidworth Dance Group, the only group to bring props to the stage, dance a cabaret style piece, of both extreme energy and brilliant choreography.

The last live performance is by Salisbury band Things Behind the Sun, who perform fast paced alt rock, only stopping to send Joe O running for a capo, and to be given fortune cookies by girls in the audience. The lead singers stage presence, and excellent crowd control is the highlight of this widely appreciated performance. On the coach back to Salisbury, they described the performance to me as “excellent”, and told me that “Trowbridge was amazing, a really good start to out EP promotion tour”.

The last piece of entertainment is DJ Skippabeat, who rounds the evening off with a selection of tracks to get the whole Civic Centre Dancing. He mixes tracks with an air of musical superiority, adding to and twisting tracks around in surprising, yet danceable ways.

The whole evening is summed up with a quote from the DJ, who is also on the coach home – the whole event had a “great atmosphere”. Filled with sublime entertainment, and consisting of awards for exceptional young people, The Event is a well earned and enjoyable evening out for young people across Wiltshire, and I highly recommend all of you attend it next year.

Are we keeping to The Promise? Is Wiltshire getting care right? This is your chance to tell us what you think!

*****CLICK HERE TO TAKE THE SURVEY!*****

Basically these ABC meetings run much like any other conventional meeting. Various people attend to convince the bpard to allow their applications to be heard and therefore set the agenda for the next full Area Board meeting. This part generally runs smoothly although sometimes heated discussions cause potential agenda items to be rejected.

Another important role of the ABC meetings are to report on actions that occured as a result of the minutes of the previous Area Board meeting. This allows me to find out important breaking informatin on the current happening in Trowbridge.

So that is pretty much the extent of what happens at ABC meetings. I've been told that it is a great step forward for young people and that hopefully it will pave the way for more responsibility and input from young people.

In this video the WAY & UKYP 2013 Candidates talk about the pros and cons of an English Only Parliament and if it would get young people more invovled in politics.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH PART 2 OF THE VIDEO 

Here's the link - http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p013v5fc

Scroll across to 1:10:00 and hear their interview......

• 17th April
• 26th June
• 11th September
• 30th October
• 11th December

This meeting we have had a workshop on how to use Sparksite so we will be updating you with what we are discussing.

Projects that we are involved in:

• Improving Trowbridge Town Park
• Supporting Seymour young people to get a youth shelter
• Supporting Studly Green young people to have a half-pipe in the BMX track

Gaps in activities for young people:

We have identified that young people would like regular band nights and themed film nights.

Key Issue - How can young people who are in education get part-time jobs in Trowbridge when employers want work experience? So how can we get employers to support young people.

If you are interested in any of these or have comments, please let us know online on these social networking sites: 

'Like' us on Facebook! www.facebook.com/trowbridgeyag

'Follow' us on Twitter! @TrowbridgeYAG

Or you can email us! trowbridgeyag@hotmail.com

Check out North Candidate, Kieran Mulvaney, and East Candidate, Aodhan Burnell, as they spoke about their campaigns and some of the BIG ISSUES to BBC Radio Wiltshire on Saturday. Click on the link below and scroll to the 1hour 10 minutes to hear what they had to say!

 http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p013v5fc

Details of all candidates standing can be found on the 'Get Invovled' page!

Listen here to the candidates as they tell you who they are, what the elections are about, what their polices are and why you should vote for them.Listen to the full interviews on our podcast service located at the bottom right of the Sparksite home page or copy and paste the URL below into your browser.

http://www.podcast.canstream.co.uk/spark/

We are two guys from Chippenham named Oli and Joe, we're in a live dubstep band and we wan't to force you to listen.

 
Your thoughts on Spark Radio..... 
A great oppurtinity to gain an insight into all areas of the music industry.
 
 
Turn ons........ 
Live music and free food.

 
Turn offs.......  


Angry people in town centres with hatchets and overpriced food.

 
Fav Music...... 

Pendulum, The Prodigy, Knife Party, Noisia, Downlink, Reso, Modestep, Eminem, Korn, Public Enemy, Aphex twin, Excision, Slayer, Meshuggah, Enter shikari, Letlive and a lot of others.

Catch The Guys live on air every Thursday 4-5pm

Aardman Animations from Bristol are Comming To visit our Town and get people of our town to make there own Aardman Charcters. Like Wallace and Gromit and So much more if you want to no more on the Film festival visit this part of Sparksite http://www.sparksite.co.uk/entries/melksham_film_festival 

Just to let everyone know do not miss this amazing Event the Five O Clock Show will be there recording a little video for sparksite. Aardman Work shop day is Tuesday 12th FEB. Do Not Miss it.

I'm Luke from Shrewton

  Your thoughts on Spark Radio..... .

Fantastic oppoprtunity for a young person to get into radio.

Turn ons........ Motor sport, Motorsport reporting for the Salisbury Journal,Snooker,Acting and Filming at Salisbury Arts Centre.Manchester United,Fernando Alonso

 Turn offs....... School,Mushrooms,Sebastion Vettel,Manchester City

Catch Luke Mondays 7-8pm Live On Spark

Fancy a chat?

Are things getting on top of you?

Come and meet France at Canberra - Melksham Youth Club

Available from 4-7pm on Thursday's and you can even refer yourself with the form below. A confidental service for young people, if you'd just like some more information then pop into Canberra and see the Youth Workers to find out more.

Here are some Frequently Asked Questions to help you in the future ...

1. The contraceptive pill protects against STIs (sexually transmitted infections)?

FALSE – Contraceptive pills do not protect against STIs or HIV/AIDS. They do protect against pregnancy if used correctly.
 

2.   Lipstick can damage condoms?

 TRUE – Any contact with oil based products can damage condoms. These include:
–Massage Oils
–Baby Oil
–Sun Tan Creams and Oils
–Cooking Oil
–Ice Cream
–Mayonnaise
–Petroleum Jelly (Vaseline)
–Moisturiser
Water based lubricants are safe to use with condoms

3. If a condom splits during sex a woman has 24 hours to take emergency oral contraception (‘the morning after pill’)?

FALSE - The emergency contraceptive pill can be taken within 72 hours. However the sooner it is taken the more effective it is.

4. Chlamydia can be treated and completely cured?

TRUE - If you test positive for Chlamydia, you will be offered free antibiotics.

5. All STIs have symptoms?

FALSE – Not all STIs will have symptoms. For example Chlamydia often has no signs or symptoms.

6. Chlamydia is the most common STI in young people in the UK?

TRUE – Chlamydia is the UK’s most common curable sexually transmitted infection. It is caused by bacteria and is easily passed on through unprotected anal, oral or vaginal sex or by fingers with an infected person.   Chlamydia often has no signs or symptoms
 

7. A condom can hold 14 pints of water?

TRUE – A condom can hold 14 pints of water which is the same as 24 cans of coke!

8. Condoms and femidoms if used correctly and consistently are the only form of contraceptive that will protect you against STIs, HIV/AIDS and unintended pregnancies?
  

TRUE – Other forms of contraception such as the coil, cap, pill, implant and injection may give some protection against pregnancy but will not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

Easy Questions:-

1. Oral sex is...
a. When you talk during sex
b. Using your mouth to stimulate your partner's genitals
c. Another word for French kissing
Answer: b. Oral sex involves oral stimulation (i.e. sucking or licking) of the
penis or the vagina.

2. What is foreplay?
a. Forward planning before going on a date
b. Kissing, cuddling and sexual activities before sexual intercourse
c. Flirting between two people who know they are attracted to one
another
Answer: b. Sexual intercourse begins with foreplay. Both partners get sexually excited through kissing and cuddling, touching and sexual
activities.

3. When having sex, the best way to avoid an STD is to…
a. Use a condom
b. Have sex standing up
c. Only have anal sex
Answer: a. Condoms are the most effective way to prevent STD infection.  STDs can be passed on through anal sex, and sex while standing up will not give any protection against STDs.

4. How do you have sexual intercourse?
a. Sexual partners put their mouths together and massage their tongues
b. A man puts his penis inside a woman's vagina, or his partner’s anus, and
moves it backward and forward
c. A man or a woman touches their partner's genitals
Answer: b. Sexual intercourse is when a man's penis goes inside a woman's vagina, or his partner’s anus, and moves backward and forward, creating a pleasurable sensation for both partners. Sexual intercourse might also be used to describe sex acts between two women or between two men.

5. Bisexual people…
a. Can be attracted to women or men
b. Are not attracted to either women or men
c. Have had a sex change
Answer: a. Bisexual people have sexual feelings towards both women and men.

6. You "lose your virginity" when…
a. You sleep in the same bed as another person
b. You have sexual intercourse for the first time
c. You get married
Answer: b. The term 'to lose your virginity' means to have sex for the first time.

7. Unprotected sex is…
a. When a man puts his penis into a woman's vagina or partner’s anus in an unsafe location
b. When a man puts his penis into a woman's vagina or partner’s anus without her consent
c. When a man puts his penis into a woman's vagina or partner’s anus without using a condom
Answer: c. Having unprotected sex means having sex (when a man puts his penis into a woman's vagina or partner’s anus) without using a condom.

Medium questions

1. Does having sex hurt?
a. Only if you get it wrong
b. Sometimes
c. Only if you have a sexually transmitted disease
Answer: b. First time sex may be uncomfortable for the woman, but after the first time, sex should become more comfortable. A woman may also experience pain when having sex if her vagina does not produce enough natural lubrication.

2. Herpes can be transmitted by...
a. Oral sex only
b. Vaginal sex only
c. Oral, anal and vaginal sex
d. Neither oral nor vaginal sex
Answer: c. Genital herpes is passed on through skin contact with an infected person. The virus affects the areas where it enters the body, through kissing, penetrative or oral sex. The best way to prevent STD
infection is to use a condom.

3. The age of sexual consent is the age at which you can…
a. Agree to go on a date
b. Have sex
c. Get married
Answer: b. The age of consent is the age when the law says you can agree to have sex. This might differ depending which country you are in. In most countries, until you reach this age you can't legally have sex with anyone, however old they are.

4. What is an orgasm?
a. Intense sexual feelings towards a person
b. A climax that happens during vaginal sex only
c. A climax that can happen during vaginal, anal or oral sex, and
masturbation
Answer: c. An orgasm is a pleasurable climax that can happen during all types of sex and masturbation.

5. Will both partners definitely have an orgasm during heterosexual sex?
a. Yes, definitely
b. No, not always
c. Only the woman
Answer: b. Both partners do not always have an orgasm during sex. Sometimes it can take a while depending on the sexual position and how aroused both partners feel.

6. When is a "safe" time for a girl to have unprotected sex so that she will not become pregnant?
a. On the first day of her period
b. There is no "safe" time of the month
c. Just after her period is finished
Answer: b. There is unfortunately no 'safe' time to have unprotected sex if you wish to avoid getting pregnant. Even unprotected sex during a girl's period can result in pregnancy.

7. What is the 'missionary' position?
a. The body position where the man lies on top of the woman during sex
b. The body position where the woman sits on top of the man during sex
c. The body position where the woman and man lie side by side during sex
Answer: a. A common sexual position is for the woman and man to be lying down, face to face with either the woman or man on their back. If the man is lying on top this is often referred to as the missionary position.

Hard questions

1. Monogamy is when you...
a. Only have one sexual partner
b. Decide not to have sex with anyone
c. Have sex with many different people
Answer: a. Being monogamous means being faithful to one partner.

2. What are lubricants?
a. A type of contraception
b. A type of female condom
c. A type of male condom
d. A product designed to make sex smoother
Answer: d. Lubricant, or 'lube' is like a cream or jelly which can be used to make sex go a little more smoothly. It should be put on the outside of a condom so that the penis slides into the vagina or anus more easily. Only water-based lubricant should be used with a condom as oil-based ones could cause it to degrade.

3. Which is the most common STD transmitted through oral sex?
a. Hepatitis C
b. HIV
c. Chlamydia
d. Herpes
Answer: d. The most common STD transmitted through oral sex is herpes. Herpes can cause cold sores around the mouth or genital herpes sores.

4. What is the average global age for having sex for the first time?
a. 16
b. 19
c. 25
Answer: b. Surveys have shown that the average global age for first having sex is around 19, and in some countries it’s as high as 23.

5. The 'withdrawal method', or withdrawing the boy's penis before he 'comes' during sex, is...
a. A good way to prevent pregnancy
b. A good way to prevent STD infection
c. Not a good way to prevent pregnancy or STDs
Answer: c. If a boy pulls his penis out before he ejaculates, the girl can still become pregnant. Sperm can be present in pre-cum and just a small amount in or around the vagina can be enough to make a woman pregnant.

6. ‘Cunnilingus’ is another word for…
a. Oral stimulation of the female genitals
b. Homosexual anal sex
c. Foreplay
Answer: a. The word cunnilingus derives from the Latin for ‘vulva’ (cunnus) and ‘to lick’ (lingere).

 

To find out more about Autism go to - http://www.autism.org.uk/about-autism.aspx

Here are some Myths & Facts about Autism:-

AutismFact: According to a 2012 survey, 27% of children with autism have been excluded from school 

AutismFact: compared with 4% of children without autism who have been excluded from school

AutismFact: School exclusions of children and young people with autism are generally avoidable with the right support  

AutismFact: 63% of young people with autism have been bullied at school, according to a 2012 survey 

AutismMyth: All children with autism go to special educational needs schools

AutismFact: Most children with autism go to mainstream school while others require support at special schools  
 
AutismMyth: Stimming (repetitive behaviour like flapping or rocking) is undesirable and should be stopped

AutismFact: Repetitive behaviour like flapping or rocking can help some people with autism deal with chaotic environments or stress
 
AutismFact: Stimming can be a healthy method of personal expression & sometimes communication for people with autism

AutismFact: There are an estimated 106,000 school-aged children with autism in the UK
 
AutismFact: Autism is a ‘hidden’ condition – you can’t always tell if someone has it 

AutismMyth: A child with autism will grow out of the condition

AutismFact: The right support at the right time can enhance a child with autism’s opportunities 

AutismMyth: A person with autism cannot be educated

AutismFact: With the right structured support both in and out of school, people with autism can reach their full potential  
 
 

At around 4am the snow started to come down hard in Melksham and around wiltshire area. By 7am Melksham and Wiltshire was White! Every Young people went online and looked if there school was shut most schools around Wiltshire area where shut for the day. So I went out and took some nice snowy pictures to post here on Sparksite and also a video which  the link will be down below. But its not over we have more snow to come on Monday 21/01/2013 that's what the weather says.

Take a look in your area by going to http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/ the met office and have a look in your local area you may get 1 more day off. If you have any pics of snow send them in and we will put them up on Sparksite. 

email: Loveradio2.4@hotmail.co.uk

Young people from Salisbury and the surrounding area were given professional training to become a documentary film crew recording the entire process of the excavations and interviewing the key people involved.

The project, nicknamed 'Project Florence' to match up with the army's excavation codename of 'Operation Nightingale', was funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and resulted in this 25 minute film.

Edited by Simon Davison and young filmmakers, produced by Simon Morris a Salisbury Arts Centre Production in association with Wessex Archaeology

In-kind support provided by Salisbury Arts Centre funded by Wiltshire Council and Arts Council England

© Wessex Archaeology 2012

“Operation Nightingale: Time Warriors”, is a Salisbury Arts Centre film made by local young people in partnership with Wessex Archaeology and the army. It documents the process of an archaeological dig conducted by a team of recovering service personnel on military land on Salisbury Plain. Young people were given professional training in all aspects of film production to complete the film, and had the opportunity to access land normally off-limits to the public – as well as the inspiring experience of watching the bones of ancient warriors being dug up by their contemporary counterparts, and a special visit from television’s Time Team.

Filmed and edited by young people from Salisbury, Amesbury, Durrington, Fovant and Winterbourne Stoke:

Keith Cullen Bachiller
Tim Daulby
Matthew Huggins
Poppy Iveson
Joanna Keating
Charlotte Longley-Radford
Ella Mai
Chloe Potter
Ethan Reed
Shane Sanderson
Deon Taylor
Jessica Traynor

Edited by Simon Davison and young filmmakers, produced by Simon Morris a Salisbury Arts Centre Production in association with Wessex Archaeology

In-kind support provided by Salisbury Arts Centre funded by Wiltshire Council and Arts Council England

© Wessex Archaeology 2012

For FREE information about what immunisation boosters you need download the document attached and find out WHY YOU SHOULD BE IMMUNISED

This guide is for teenagers aged 13 to 18.

Find out:

• about the immunisations that are given to teenagers, usually when they are still at school;

• why these immunisations are needed;

• what side effects they might have.

The guide also answers some of the most common questions about these immunisations.
If you have any questions or want more information, talk to your school nurse, or the doctor or nurse at your GP surgery. You can also visit http://www.immunisation.nhs.uk/ or www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/immunisation

To find out where your local surgery is go to www.nhs.uk/Service-Search

For more information you can also go to - http://www.patient.co.uk/health/

The project was organised by Katie Whiting and Ronnie Butcher. It was a six week, one day per week, programme for students from Trowbridge’s secondary schools. The overall aim was to “try and reengage young people who are at risk of social and educational exclusion or of crime.” 

The coppicing we were undertaking at Green Lane Wood was part of our on-going management of the reserves. It opens up areas of woodland to allow for an increase in biodiversity. As a result of their very hard work they were awarded the Discovery Level of the John Muir Award.

Purple Flag is the indicator of where to go for a good night out.

Purple Flag is the “gold standard” for town centres at night, it aims to raise standards and improve the quality of our towns and cities between the hours of 5pm and 5am. It is an accreditation scheme based on a set of standards and towns and cities that meet the standards can fly the flag.

Why did Salisbury apply for a Purple Flag?

Salisbury already provides a wide range of activities during the day and in the evenings; however, achieving a Purple Flag will bring positive publicity to the city and encourage further diverse activities. 
We would like to encourage more people to come to Salisbury in the evenings, including Young People. 
We want to ensure that people visiting Salisbury feel safe and that they are in a city that is clean, attractive and accessible.  A city where they can have a good night out not just in the local pubs and clubs but at a wide range of activities including arts and culture, leisure, food and dining, education and events.

What area does the Purple Flag cover?

The City Centre within the Ring Road, the Train Station, Churchill Gardens and Wiltshire College.  Please see the map attached which shows the proposed Purple Flag area.

What Salisbury has to keep a Purple Flag?

We have to prove that Salisbury is:-

• Is welcoming, clean and safe
• Is supported by good transport links for arrival, circulation and departure, with an appropriate form of late-night public transport provision as well as good accessible car parking
• Has clear, safe and convenient pedestrian links within the centre and homewards
• Has a vibrant choice and a rich mix of entertainment and activities
• Is a stimulating destination and a vital place to be
• Is appealing at night for all age ranges
• Is convenient, functional and attractive at night as well as during the day
• Is alive after five. 

Other great areas included:

• The Chapel Nightclub was singled out as managing its queues particularly well.
• The Art and Youth offer at the Salisbury Playhouse, Art Centre and the Skate Park were said to be ‘exceptional and well worthy of note’. Assessors added that ‘Salisbury Playhouse and Art Centre were ‘superb’, with ‘vibrant enthusiastic management that should be commended’. 
• They were also impressed by Bluez n Zuz which is run by Wiltshire Police at The Chapel nightclub.

Where can I go to find out more? www.allaboutsalisbury.co.uk

Coming soon in 2013 to the Trowbridge Area -

Kick Start:
Coming in February 2013 to Trowbridge Bridge House, giving you the chance to try new things, have fun and improve your job prospects at the same time by gaining work experiences and gaining employment based qualifications.

Resolve:
Get qualified Get confident earn cash, run by Wiltshire College, a 13 week programme which can be made up of work experience, group work, gym sessions. You might be able to achieve bonus payments up to £200.

Princes Trust Team Programme:
Coming into Court Mills on January 21st 2013, “Do More See more and Be more!” Uncover your hidden talents and improve your confidence, gain new skills and qualifications. 3 in 4 young people we helped in 2011 moved on to work, education or training.

Hitz Bath Rugby Foundation Learning -Being run along with Court Mills Youth Service and Bath Rugby from January 2013
HITZ Bath provides participants with the opportunity to access personal and social development programmes, educational support, vocational training programmes and workforce development Apprenticeships and volunteering opportunities

Project Inspire Jan to April 2013:
Includes activities such as conservation volunteering, first aid, football coaching, sports leaders, arts and crafts, music, employability skills as well as fun stuff like kayaking, fishing, snowboarding and much more

Want to know more? - Contact Connexions Integrated Youth Services 01225 718230

Or come into our drop in on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday between 1130 and 2.30 at Court Mills Youth Centre (next to Trowbridge Town Park)

Let's all do more to stop bullying!

We want all children and young people in Wiltshire to be HAPPY, HEALTHY and FREE FROM BULLYING.

Wiltshire Children's Trust (that includes all organisations that work with children and young people) have written a strategy about how they are going to work to reduce bullying and help children and young people in Wiltshire to stand up against bullying and promote positive behaviour.

The strategy wants us all to respect and celebrate each other’s differences.

We would like to hear your views on the strategy.

If you would like to have a say on how we reduce bullying in Wiltshire then please go to the following link and fill in our survey (it will only take you 5 minutes):

 http://www.sparksite.co.uk/snap/Anti-Bullying/respecting_difference.htm

We look forward to hearing from you.

The deadline for your feedback is : Friday 8th February

You can also read the full strategy by going to: http://www.wiltshirepathways.org./GenPage.asp?ID=55

A word version of the survey is also attached but we would prefer you to fill it in online if you can.

Young peoples brains may not tell them when they have drunk too much.

Alcohazard is a groundbreaking campaign to get young people animated about the issues of under aged drinking - The campaign uses a series of animated films with ‘voice overs’ from local young people to highlight the dangers of alcohol misuse.

A wide range of Wiltshire agencies have joined forces to make the campaign possible: NHS Wiltshire, Salisbury Area Board, Wiltshire Community Safety Partnership, the Youth Service, Wiltshire Assembly and Wiltshire College.

During 2009/10 there were 248 alcohol/drug related admissions to hospital in Wiltshire for people aged 17 and under.

As well as the serious health concerns of under aged drinking, it has also been linked to anti-social behaviour and unintentional injuries among both under 18s and young adults.

Although some surveys show that under aged drinking is decreasing the young people who are drinking are drinking more frequently and in larger quantities than before.

Salisbury Area Board helped to make this campaign happen after raising the issue of under aged drinking and anti social behaviour.

The project was coordinated by Creative Wiltshire involving young people from Wiltshire College and Salisbury Arts Centre working with creative professionals.  Anyone who would like to find out more about the Alcohazard! project can contact the public health team's manager for children and young people's substance misuse, Lauraine Jones on 01225 775759 or lauraine.jones@wiltshire.gov.uk

• For the whole of January 2013, holders of a Jobcentre Plus Travel Discount Card will be given unlimited free travel on approximately 70% of the GB bus network.
• Participating operators are Arriva, First, Go-Ahead, National Express, Stagecoach, Trent Barton, Kinchbus, Blackpool Transport, Cardiff Bus and Network Warrington. Some routes are not valid - such as longer-distance coaches and airport bus services.
• The Jobcentre Plus Travel Discount Cardholder should check if the service they plan to take is participating. More information can be found at www.busforus.co.uk
• The Jobcentre Plus Travel Discount Card is available free of charge through Jobcentre plus to those who have been unemployed for between three months and one year.
• The offer will be available to around 817,000 people.
• The Jobcentre Plus Travel Discount Card already provides the user up to 50% off rail fares.

For the full information please download the document attached to this entry.

• STi's - how to avoid one this christmas
• Contraception - what, where, emergency advice
• No Worries Clinics - where are they?
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Myths around STI's, condoms etc
• Plus loads more.....

The evening was a great success with lots of you contacting the station and Spark Presenter's JB and William Bridger there on hand to present the show.  Spark Radio Presenters have spent the last week making Jingles for Sexual Health week which will be played over the next couple of months.

Station Manager Jamie Flukes sat in on a live performance of the jingles at Chippenham . Expect to hear the new jingles in the New Year

Gay students are also being offered the opportunity to meet other LGB&T young people at the monthly Alliance Night.  For more infomation contact Nicola Sage on mobile: 07768 033278 or email: Nicola.sage@wiltshire.gov.uk.

We are Hiajck. A group of teens fomr the Salisbury area of Wiltshire, running monthly arts events for young people in the local area.

  Your thoughts on Spark Radio..... Great place to hear about local happenings.

Turn ons........  Gigs, festivals, parties, anything creative and fun.

  
Turn offs.......  No serial killers please.

Fav Music......  All sorts, we all have differnt tastes and enjoy everything

Catch the Hijack Show On Spark 5-6pm Tuesdays

Catch Chris going live every Tuesday 7-9 pm

The worthwhile scheme aims to provide young people with more skills, confidence and motivation to help them into the world of work, education or training. To master the course team members found themselves in a variety of situations including:

• Fundraising, planning and executing a project at Hope Nature Centre in Southwick to restore their land train as well as fixing animal hutches, pig sties and fencing.
• Completing a valuable two week work placement .
• Improving job search skills, assistance with CV writing, practicing interview skills and taking part in a mock interview.
• Having the opportunity to gain a Level 1 Certificate in Employment, Teamwork and Community Skills.

As a fitting end to their hard work and achievements, the team members will be presented with their certificates by the Trowbridge Mayor at a professional final presentation that they planned and will be delivered on the 7th December at the Civic Centre in Trowbridge.

The next programmes will run in Salisbury and Trowbridge from mid January 2013.   If you know a young person in these areas who you believe would benefit from this programme, please do not hesitate to contact us on 01225 792500 for more information.

For further information about the team programme, log onto www.learningcurve.org.uk/TEAM

An excellent thing for young people to do and gives them something good to put on there CV and help out in later life


Turn ons........ 

Don't flop, hip hop, listening to music and doing art.

Turn offs....... 

Chart music

  


Fav Music...... Hip hop, jungle, DnB

I am Harry Robinson, i play drums and bass.

I'm from Fordingbridge.

 I'm Liz Wilson and I'm from Salisbury.

Your thoughts on Spark Radio.....

I think Spark Radio is really good chance to try new things and share your ideas

 Spark radio is a really good opportunity to listen to new music and make people laugh.

 Turn ons........ 

 I play Drums And bass, but i always make sure i have my double bass pedals handy :)

I like music technology and songwriting, and I play guitar.  I also am into documentary photography.

Turn offs....... 

Electronic music really just has no skill, although i do like a bit of dubstep it is not my chosen type of music

I don't like mean people... and music wise I don't really like sparse, trip hoppy stuff :(

Fav Music...... 

 Almost any with good drum beats and that rolls,

 I like most things, but especially something catchy and upbeat, something with an original style or something with really creative or emotive lyrics.

My name is William Bridger i am 15 years old i am in year 11 and from Melksham OAK i live in Melksham. And travel to chippenham to present a show on spark radio.    

Your thoughts on Spark Radio.....

I Think spark radio is really good there is really amazing people at spark its also a great change to get in radio. Learn about diffrent tunes and how radio works. 

 Turn ons........ 

My turns ons is all about radio setting up and running my home radio station and presenting shows live i also love getting ready for my show on spark radio (The Five 'O' Clock Show) and editing my website for spark radio at www.thefiveoclockshow.com. I love listening Swedish House Mafia and David Guetta also some coldplay. The one thing i love the most is being on radio (Spark) just playing music and weekly challenges with JB from food challenge to Drink Challenge.  

Turn offs....... 

Nothing Really just some music i do not like! 

Fav Music...... 

 Love Swedish House Mafia and David Guetta Also some Coldplay and the UK TOP 40 hits love them too.

 Catch Will Live on Spark Thursday 5-6pm

My name is Kieran James Gibbs and i from Chippenham 

Your thoughts on Spark Radio.....

My thoughts on spark radio are brilliant because it teaches young people to be a DJ. Also it shows you all the event. The reason why i also joined spark radio because there was a friend who i know from my school is doing spark radio. 

Turn ons........ 
My favourite hobbies is Coventry City Football Club, XBOX, Rock music for example Dragonforce, Foghat, Alice Cooper, Owl City, Call Of Duty, Halo, pizza, chips, ice cream, pasta, apples, Avenged Sevenfold

Turn offs....... 

I dont like needles, fireworks, rugby, homework and getting bullied  


Fav Music...... 

my favourite music is rock/ heavy metal music. 

Check out the presentation and find out more about the group....

The YAG members who put this together were - Joe Stephenson, Becky Bignold, Josh Brackstone and Damian Meaden.

A total of £8,894 remains in this year’s youth budget for the Royal Wootton Bassett and Cricklade area and applications must be in before the start of next year.

Wiltshire Council is set to hold elections next year and grants cannot be allocated once politicians enter the pre-election period known as purdah, so bids have to be submitted for the last area board meeting before the ballot on January 23.

Coun Jacqui Lay (Con, Purton) urged young people across the area to submit ideas for how to spend the cash.

She said: “It has been brought to our attention this week that our area board has an untouched youth budget of £8,894.

“The board can use this budget to award funding to local initiatives led by young people or young groups or clubs that will benefit young people in the community area.

The next meeting of the area board, where more details of the budget will be released, will take place on Wednesday, November 28 at St Bartholomew’s Primary School, in Royal Wootton Bassett from 6pm.

To find out more about applying for grants contact the new Royal Wootton Bassett and Cricklade community area manager Penny Bell on 01249 706613 or penny.bell@wiltshire.gov.uk or your local Wiltshire councillor.

A family living with domestic abuse have taken the decision to speak out - listen to their video.....

They want to share their personal experiences of living with domestic abuse, and the steps they have taken to move forward, to help others to find the confidence to seek support.  The personal accounts from a mother and her children aged 9 and 12 have been captured in pre-recorded interviews. 

Wiltshire Council has been working with Housing Partners from GreenSquare Group, who have been supporting this family living with domestic abuse.   

Young people are being encouraged to have their say on a new key document on tackling domestic abuse. 

During April 2011 to March 2012, there were 4,231 domestic abuse incidences reported to Wiltshire Police. However only one in five incidents are usually reported to the police, so the ‘real’ projected volume could be as high as 20,000 incidents per year.

Wiltshire and Swindon Community Safety Partnerships have produced a draft strategy outlining how organisations across the county will work together to tackle domestic abuse. Before this is finalised, young people are being invited to participate in the consultation and give their views.

We would really like your thoughts on this and tell us what you think.  To do this all you need to do is go to this link www.wiltshire.gov.uk/domesticabusestrategyconsultation, please tell us what you think between November 19 to February 19, 2013.

The consultation is launched as Wiltshire marks November 19 to 24 as Domestic Abuse Awareness Week.

During the week look out for local charities that provide specialist support for victims of domestic abuse as they will be packing bags in Sainsbury’s stores to raise awareness of the services as well as an opportunity to raise funds for their work.  Don't forget to donate, just a little can go a long way.

This is taking place on:
Victim Support will be in Sainsbury, Devizes on Friday 23 November
Splitz Support Service will be in Sainsbury, Bradford on Avon on Saturday 24 November

If you are or know someone who is living with the effects of domestic abuse, people are urged to speak out and seek support by calling the National Domestic Abuse Helpline 0808 2000 247 (freephone in partnership with Women’s Aid and Refuge) or www.speakoutwiltshire.com in an emergency please call 999.

You will study for qualifications in your subject area and functional skills on the job or with a training provider such as a college.

The industry sectors they cover include: Art and Design, Business Administration,Accountancy, Construction, Energy, Engineering, Food and Drink, Manufacturing, Hairdressing, Health and Social Care, Hospitality, The Motor Industry, Performing Arts, Retail, Science, Sports Management, Leadership and Coaching.

•You gain a Level 2 or Level 3 vocational qualification

•Apprenticeships involve a mix of classroom learning and practical hands-on experience in various settings.

WHAT CANYOU DO NEXT

•Apprentices can progress from Level 2 to Level 3 Apprenticeships, jobs with training or further education

•Level 3 Apprentices can progress to higher education to study foundation or honours degrees

•Go into full-time employment.

Check out this really great website -www.apprenticeships.org.uk

or view Your Choices for more info

There other video to see to:-

Apprenticeships - Earn while you learn

Apprenticeships Channel

Leisure Credits are awarded to young people who volunteer their spare time during holidays and at weekends and members of MTCV work on similar projects during school terms providing young people who are not in training, full time education or employment opportunities to gain qualifications and skills to help them into full-time training or employment.

The Tisbury Allotments Project is a social enterprise that grows fruit and vegetables for local outlets and has just had its first growing season. Project Coordinator Mark Holden says …” The young people have spent hundreds of hours reclaiming unused land to create a wonderful garden growing a wide range of fruit and veg. and these have gone down very well indeed with the local community”….

Long Hill in Mere has also benefitted from the hard work of the young volunteers and this summer the paths have been widened and levelled out increasing the access to this popular historic landmark.
In Tisbury young people have painted the fence surrounding the outdoor pool on Weaveland Road and Tisbury Development Centre for Young People project night members have been renovating a bench from the bottom of the Avenue.

Young people from Wilton and surrounding villages have been restoring the bus shelter at Burcombe at the request of the Parish Council, building a bench for a garden at the Wilton Development Centre for Young People and will be clearing foot paths in Wilton and Cleaning park railings next the Shopping Village in the near future. Work has also taken place in Bowerchalke creating a community garden.
There is a growing band of local adult volunteers who help with the work and support the young people. Mark Holden says ..”our volunteers are becoming an important part of the project and add valuable skills and experience for the young people to pick up”…

For further information, to apply to be an adult volunteer or a young person who would like to get involved and requests for work to be done please contact Project Coordinator Mark Holden at Tisbury Development Centre for Young People, The Avenue, Tisbury SP3 6JJ, Tel 01747 871454, email mark.holden@wiltshire.gov.uk

My name is Harry Goacher, i live in Melksham, Wiltshire and am currently working at Sainsbury's to earn money before I attend Bournemouth University next year studying radio.

Thoughts on Spark

Spark creates great opportunities for young people to get experience in radio and acts as a fantastic way for young people to socialise and get involved in local activities. I hope my listeners will hear some great new music and discover something they love!

Turn Ons

I love a lot of music from Rock to Dance music and I am very passionate about it. Discovering new music and listening to new albums is a big turn on for me. I love pop punk, heavy rock, acoustic tracks, dance anthems, some rap and anything else that gets me moving.

I also love football, comedy and playing the guitar!

Turn Offs

Most pop music generally, anything created where profit is largely prioritised over quality music >:(

And if you're looking to buy me a sub i dont like sweetcorn or cucumber.

Fav Music

Green Day, Blink 182, Foo Fighters, Rudimental, Nero, Paramore, Frnk Turner, new music, olkd music, sad music, dance music, loud music, soft music, epic music.

Catch Harry Thursday Night 7-8 pm Live On Spark

NEET stands for 'not in education, employment or training,' and any young person between 16-19 who is not in school or college, on a training course or apprenticeship or in work will be listed as NEET. 

At the moment Wiltshire has more young people who fall into this category than the national average for the UK and so lots of work is going into providing more opportunities for those young people who get to 16 and don't want to stay at school.

Young Commissioners have gone through the Draft Action Plan and here are just a couple of the points they made:

•  The Action Plan has a proposed working-life of 1 year, what comes next? How will the Council and partners keep supporting young people beyond 2013?
• Young people should be key partners in the development of the ‘Profile’ for the 16-19 year olds who choose to leave post-16 learning.
• Young people should be offered training about the different options available to them at 16 and wha it means to be NEET.
• How will local employers be brought on board to increase the number of jobs and apprenticeships for young people? What will their incentive be to take young people on?

These are just a few of the points and questions Young Commissioners have put to the Lead Commissioner about the plan. To see the Draft Action Plan in full - click on the link http://www.wiltshirepathways.org/UploadedFiles/Draft_neet_reduction_plan_201213.pdf

You can also see the Young Commissioners full response by clicking on the document icon opposite!

You can send your own feedback on the Action Plan direct to the Partners by emailing it to Pathways@wiltshire.gov.uk or by contacting Hayley at the Voice & Influence Team at hayley.bambrough@wiltshire.gov.uk

All comments need to be sent by November 9th.

The Line - Confidential information and advice for young people

10am - 10pm daily - 0800 511111 Text - 07786511111

Children’s Social Care Referral & Assessment Service

Tel : 01380 733567 8.45am – 5.20pm

Wiltshire Council Emergency Duty Service

Evenings/Weekends 0845 6070888

We would also urge young people, who may be worried, to talk to their parents or friends, or to speak to the Pastoral staff at their school.  To find out who to speak to look out for the attached poster in your school....

More helplines can also be found by clicking URGENT on SparkSite

If parents are concerned please contact the advice lines or talk to their GP.

The Hundred 2 Hundreds fundraising challenge invites young people from the county to make a bid for £100 of funding, explaining how they would use it to raise more.

Applicants will put their entrepreneurial and creative skills to the test by researching and developing a fundraising proposal which will then be considered by a judging panel at the Red Cross.

The winning entries will be awarded the money to put their ideas into practice.

For more information go to www.redcross.org.uk/ hundred2hundreds or email getfundraising@redcross.org.uk

Join a national online panel for young people!

Application Closing Date: 15th October 2012

A new online panel for young people is being set up, the aim of the panel is to support young people to make the right choices about their health.

The Department of Health is launching a new programme to help young people make informed choices about their health, with a particular focus on risky behaviours (smoking, drinking alcohol, taking illegal drugs and unsafe sex). It wants to normalise everyday conversations about these behaviours to create an open, positive and supportive environment for young people to ask questions, find out more and voice concerns. Don't be shy or embarrassed to speak out!

The main difference between this campaign and those done in the past is the fact that it will be looking at all risky behaviours; tackling smoking, drinking alcohol, taking illegal drugs and unsafe sex together. The new campaign will primarily target 11-16 year olds and their parents as communicating early to young people about these health issues is critical, although the youth panel will consist of 13- 16 year olds.

They are looking to recruit a panel of young people who will discuss various topics related to the campaign.

What will being a member of the youth panel involve?

The ‘youth panel’ will enable young people to have a real involvement and input into the campaign and help other young people.

The majority of discussions will take place on a safe online site and forum set up by a company called Social Go. Social Go is a secure online network which will be set up and monitored by the department of health. Using a safe online network will be the most efficient means of communicating with our panel. The online site and forum are quick and easy to enter and overcome the issue of panel members being located in different areas of the country. The forum will provide anonymity for all members of the panel at all times which is important as they will be discussing personal opinions

The young people involved will be invited to discuss their views in a forum; we would require each member of our panel to contribute to at least 4 forum discussions in a year. We understand that the young people on our panel will have busy lives and so they will have the flexibility to choose which forum sessions they are able to attend. We will also contact the panel members to test and develop content for the campaign, ask their opinion of creative work, find out their attitudes to brands, and talk to them about issues that affect their lives and what are usually the barriers to conversations.

Who are they seeking to recruit for our panel?

They are looking to recruit:

-       A panel of 50-60 young people, aged 13-16 (about 15 from each year group to ensure a fair spread of opinions across the diverse range of ages)

-       A diverse spectrum of young people, from those who are very opinionated and vocal, to those who are less confident and forthcoming when expressing their opinions (the online youth panel with Social Go gives a level of anonymity which will allow young people, who would usually be less vocal to express themselves in a less intimidating setting)

-       A spread of people from different areas of England.

-       we welcome applications from individuals or two young people can team up and submit an application as a partnership

 How to apply?

Applicants can pick from ONE of four options below and answer both the questions in the category. The categories are all related to relevant new digital technology and popular culture which young people are familiar with.  

For a written application the maximum length is 180 words for each answer. The answers can be written in word and sent as an attachment by email or written in an email.

For a video application the maximum length is 60 seconds for each answer. The video can be uploaded on to Vimeo (a site where videos can be uploaded by anyone and are password protected) http://vimeo.com/, the link to the video, and/or the username and password to watch it must then be sent to us by email

Please note both questions must be answered to qualify.

To send applications by email the subject line must be youth panel followed by the question category being answered (gaming/mobile phones/social media/reality TV)

Subject line e.g. youth panel- mobile phones

Emails should be sent to thepanel@23red.com

The final deadline for applications is the end of August, applications will be reviewed on a first come, first served basis.

Questions

Gaming

1) What do you think are the best games? What makes them so good?

2) If you were creating your own game what would it be like?

E.g. tell us what would the theme would be, what players have to do etc.

Mobile Phones

1) What do you think about smartphones being used at school? Are they helpful for studying or just a distraction?

2) If you were going to create a mobile app, what would it do?

Social Media

1) What social networks do you use? What do you use them for?

2) What changes would you make to Facebook to make it better for you and your friends?

Reality TV

1) What do you think of TV talent shows like The Voice, Britain’s got Talent & The X Factor?

2) If you could make a reality TV show what would the theme be, what would you get people to do and who would be the judges?

 The Judging criteria

When reviewing the applications we will be evaluating the following 3 criteria–

- Presentation of ideas (how the ideas are expressed).

- Development of ideas (how the ideas are expanded/ explained using more detail).

- Creative thinking when answering question 2 (come up with original ideas and unafraid to put potentially different ideas forward).

Rewards for involvement

Every time a member of the panel participates in a forum their name will be entered into a prize draw for large grand prize draw at the end of the year. The more they participate the higher their odds of winning become. The grand prize draw will take place a year after the panel is formed.

There will also be sporadic prize draws every three months to reward panel members for their loyalty and input to our campaign.

The prizes will be provided by some of our commercial partners, they are yet to be confirmed at this stage.

For more information

If you have any questions about the youth panel or would like any more information about the campaign please do not hesitate to send an email to thepanel@23red.com

WARNING: This has depresing videos in (but not too bad at all)

If you are aged 13 - 19 Spark Radio is looking for dynamic exciting  radio presenters for both our Chippenham and Salisbury studios.

For more information please contact station manager Jamie Flukes

jamie.flukes@wiltshire.gov.co.uk or 07917267739

A wide range of Wiltshire agencies have joined forces to make the campaign possible: NHS Wiltshire, Salisbury Area Board, Wiltshire Community Safety Partnership, the Youth Service, Wiltshire Assembly and Wiltshire College.

During 2009/10 there were 248 alcohol/drug related admissions to hospital in Wiltshire for people aged 17 and under.

As well as the serious health concerns of under aged drinking, it has also been linked to anti-social behaviour and unintentional injuries among both under 18s and young adults.

Although some surveys show that under aged drinking is decreasing the young people who are drinking are drinking more frequently and in larger quantities than before.

Salisbury Area Board helped to make this campaign happen after raising the issue of under aged drinking and anti social behaviour.

The project was coordinated by Creative Wiltshire involving young people from Wiltshire College and Salisbury Arts Centre working with creative professionals.  Anyone who would like to find out more about the Alcohazard! project can contact the public health team's manager for children and young people's substance misuse, Lauraine Jones on 01225 775759 or lauraine.jones@wiltshire.gov.uk

Produced as part of the Creative Wiltshire Alcohazard! project by young people working with Evil Twins Artwork at Wiltshire College, Chippenham

Andy and Andrew made a model of a ramp to a building as we have been  discussing the difficulties that a disabled person can experience when trying to access leisure facilities/clubs and buildings and the group are curenlty looking at how they can raise awareness about this issue.

After a lot of hard work the young people chill out by playing on the Wii, chatting or playing pool.  Nicola made a very good model of the Wii.

The next meeting is on September 18th at Devizes Youth Centre from 4.30pm - 6.15pm.

Food is provided, (normally a pizza!) and transport can be arranged.

Come along and make new friends, have fun and make a diffence for disabled young people in Wiltshire.

HAVE YOUR VIEWS LISTENED TO AND REPRESENTED

please ring Sonia Nicholls on 01373 859485 to find out more

The Prince’s Trust is a charity that believes in young people who often don’t believe in themselves. We seek out those young people that need our help the most and work with young people who struggle at school, are in or leaving care, are long-term unemployed or have been in trouble with the law. We work with young people aged 14-30 to help them get back into work, education and training.

Get involved in this 12 week programme, meet new people, tackle new challenges and plan for the future - to find out more download the attached....

The participatory budgeting item will involve local people attending the meeting making the decision about which youth projects are funded. Voting handsets will be used to cast votes. Young people will attend the meeting to put forward their ideas for projects. The most popular projects will go through.

Young people are encouraged to think about what projects they would really like to see in their area.  They will need to work on their application with a sponsor and be able to present (in person, as a group, using a video clip etc) their ideas to the meeting.  Applications for up to £1,000 can be put forward.  The Board has allocated up to £4,045 for PB grants.

At similar events in other areas of Wiltshire, funding was agreed for projects which included:

• Equipment
• Trips or outdoor recreational activities • Art, sports, theatre, dance, cookery or craft activities
• Training and learning new skills

The Area Board will not consider projects for:

• Political or religious activities
• Wiltshire Council services
• Private or profit making concerns • Statutory bodies to fund core services (inc. schools)
• Sole benefit of individuals
• Retrospective funding

The deadline for applications is Friday 28 September.  There is a drop in session on Wednesday 13 September from 12 noon to 2pm at Warminster Civic Centre, Sambourne Road, Warminster, BA12 8LB where I will be on hand to answer any questions you may have about the process.  In addition, advice and information can also be given by contacting me over the phone or by email.

Please remember that successful projects will be those that have been designed and put forward by young people themselves.

A Participation and Involvement Strategy for Wiltshire has been written and agreed- why not check it out?! Click on the attached document for the young peoples version of the strategy!

The Participation and Involvment Strategy wants to make lives better for children, young people, parents and carers through listening to them and developing services based on what they say.

Thank you to all of those that fed their views in to the development of the strategy- we hope you like the final version!

 If you have any comments or questions about the strategy please contact us at voiceandinfluenceteam@wiltshire.gov.uk.

The bridging project works with young people aged 13-19 who need additional support and we are looking for some peer mentors to help suppport the group. A peer mentor isa young person who volunteers their time and helps support other young people to take part in activities as well as helping the youth workers run the youth session. Volunteeting looks great on your CV and you will gain an ASDAN accreditation while doing something positive.

We do all sorts of activities, from music to arts and crafts.

If you are aged 13-19 and live in the local area then get in touch to find out more!

Contact Jenni Bertram, Youth Development Co-ordinator on 01980 654172 or email jenni.bertram@wiltshire.gov.uk

What do you think of the suggested changes? Ofsted would like to hear your views on their ideas to improve how they inspect services.

Looked After - consultation closes September 18th 2012! Only 7 questions! Click on the link below for more information (go to the section titled available downloads and click on 'Have your say on how we inspect services for looked after in future'):

http://www.ofsted.gov.uk/resources/arrangements-for-inspection-of-services-for-children-looked-after-and-care-leavers

Services to protect children - consultation closes October 2nd 2012! Only 10 questions! Click on the link below for more information (go to the section titled available downloads and click on 'Have your say on how we inspect services to protect children'):

www.ofsted.gov.uk/resources/inspection-of-multi-agency-arrangements-for-protection-of-children 

Offered at levels 1, 2 and 3 on the National Qualifications Framework.  Arts Award can be achieved at three levels: Bronze, Silver and Gold.

Whatever art form you’re interested in, whatever your ability, Arts Award fits you.

You can do an Arts Award in any area of the arts from fashion to poetry, rapping to dancing, sculpture to film.

You can be the creator or performer of your own work, or develop your skills in essential roles like marketing or stage management.

Arts Award is flexible enough to fit around your other commitments, and you can do your Arts Award wherever arts are happening with young people, including youth clubs, arts centres, schools, colleges, theatres or community groups and each level allows you to focus on a single art form or explore a range of forms.

You’ll end up with a portfolio that shows off your creativity and gives you a recognised national qualification to put on your CV.

Gaining an Arts Award will see you:

-Set yourself an arts challenge
-Go to live arts events
-Research arts careers and see how people get started
-Share your arts skills with others
-Organise your own projects
-Put together a portfolio in your own choice of format

Information sited from www.artsaward.org.uk 20th october 2009.

What to do next?

If you are interested in gaining an Arts Award then contact WYAP: WYAPinfo@wiltshire.gov.uk 01249 716 681 and we can help put you in touch with trained advisers and centres delivering the Arts Award.

It is a simple process to begin a young arts leaders group. If you're 14-21 years of age and living in Wiltshire with a passion and enthusiasm for the arts then simply get in touch and we can support you to find a YALG near you or guide you in starting up your own YALG and coming up with an arts themed project idea that inspires YOU! We will work with you to develop an action plan of what you want to achieve, how to go about it, as well as offer you support with funding and with gaining acreditation through the Arts Award.

• All YALGs are offered free workshops, artists’ lectures as well professional guidance for what ever you wish to achieve. Whatever arts you're into; drama, music, graffiti art, photography, creative writing, film, visual arts....being part of a YALG can help you take that next step.  

• Each young arts leaders group will have the opportunity to lead on the direction and content of one or both of the Creative Juice events that we hold each year. The Creative Juice events showcase local talent, offer loads of workshops, offer opportunities to meet professional artists and pick their brains and most of all allow you to take the lead! 

There is no cost to your pocket to join, just some spare time and a desire to build on your skills as well as the potential to expand your horizons about your creativity.

We want to help young people develop into the brilliant arts leaders that we know they can be by supporting them to create, work together, research and develop their own arts projects. With our help, you could gain valuable training and support which might help you get that ideal university place or assist you in deciding which career path you want to take.

What can you do now to get started?!!
Email: wyapinfo@wiltshire.gov.uk or call: 01249 716 681

The sessions took place across Wiltshire in Youth Development Centres, Arts venues and after school clubs.  It was a partnership between Wiltshire Youth Arts Partnership, Salisbury Playhouse, Pound Arts, Wiltshire Youth Development Service and Wiltshire Teenage Pregnancy and was made possible through funding from Wiltshire Young People’s Opportunity Fund and the Wiltshire Teenage Pregnancy Team.

Over the whole project 202 sessions were delivered across 8 groups, with 1889 attendances by 428 unique young people.

To find out more about the next DramaXpress project contact -carrie.creamer@wiltshire.gov.uk

The streets were full of people hoping to catch a glimpse of that special flame that had travelled all the way from Greece. I saw many people from my own school, (Stonehenge) including some teachers.

During the event, as you may know, the many sponsors travelled round giving out free bottles of coke (coca cola), noisemakers (Samsung) and streamers (Lloyds TSB). When the flame did come a massive cheer was made by everybody and lots of people gave the torchbearers high fives as he/she ran past.

After it was gone, it took 2 seconds before the streets were back to normal, with cars and vans running through the high street and people shopping. It was like it had hardly even been. Hopefully this was a day no-one will ever forget

- The same opportunities as their brothers, sisters and peers
- The support they need to live full and happy lives
- Families who feel supported in their caring roles

Our children range in age from 0-25yrs. The kinds of disabilities and/or special educational needs they have vary from physical, sensory, learning, communication, behaviour, autistic spectrum disorders or health conditions which mean they have additional and sometimes very complex care needs.

Visit our official website for all information regarding the WPCC - http://www.wiltshireparentcarercouncil.co.uk/

A wide range of Wiltshire agencies have joined forces to make the campaign possible: NHS Wiltshire, Salisbury Area Board, Wiltshire Community Safety Partnership, the Youth Service, Wiltshire Assembly and Wiltshire College.

During 2009/10 there were 248 alcohol/drug related admissions to hospital in Wiltshire for people aged 17 and under.

As well as the serious health concerns of under aged drinking, it has also been linked to anti-social behaviour and unintentional injuries among both under 18s and young adults.

Although some surveys show that under aged drinking is decreasing the young people who are drinking are drinking more frequently and in larger quantities than before.

Salisbury Area Board helped to make this campaign happen after raising the issue of under aged drinking and anti social behaviour.

The project was coordinated by Creative Wiltshire involving young people from Wiltshire College and Salisbury Arts Centre working with creative professionals.  Anyone who would like to find out more about the Alcohazard! project can contact the public health team's manager for children and young people's substance misuse, Lauraine Jones on 01225 775759 or lauraine.jones@wiltshire.gov.uk

Produced as part of the Creative Wiltshire Alcohazard! project by young people working with Jamie McDine at Salisbury Arts Centre

A wide range of Wiltshire agencies have joined forces to make the campaign possible: NHS Wiltshire, Salisbury Area Board, Wiltshire Community Safety Partnership, the Youth Service, Wiltshire Assembly and Wiltshire College.

During 2009/10 there were 248 alcohol/drug related admissions to hospital in Wiltshire for people aged 17 and under.

As well as the serious health concerns of under aged drinking, it has also been linked to anti-social behaviour and unintentional injuries among both under 18s and young adults.

Although some surveys show that under aged drinking is decreasing the young people who are drinking are drinking more frequently and in larger quantities than before.

Salisbury Area Board helped to make this campaign happen after raising the issue of under aged drinking and anti social behaviour.

The project was coordinated by Creative Wiltshire involving young people from Wiltshire College and Salisbury Arts Centre working with creative professionals.  Anyone who would like to find out more about the Alcohazard! project can contact the public health team's manager for children and young people's substance misuse, Lauraine Jones on 01225 775759 or lauraine.jones@wiltshire.gov.uk

Produced as part of the Creative Wiltshire Alcohazard! project by young people working with Evil Twins Artwork at Wiltshire College, Chippenham

A wide range of Wiltshire agencies have joined forces to make the campaign possible: NHS Wiltshire, Salisbury Area Board, Wiltshire Community Safety Partnership, the Youth Service, Wiltshire Assembly and Wiltshire College.

During 2009/10 there were 248 alcohol/drug related admissions to hospital in Wiltshire for people aged 17 and under.

As well as the serious health concerns of under aged drinking, it has also been linked to anti-social behaviour and unintentional injuries among both under 18s and young adults.

Although some surveys show that under aged drinking is decreasing the young people who are drinking are drinking more frequently and in larger quantities than before.

Salisbury Area Board helped to make this campaign happen after raising the issue of under aged drinking and anti social behaviour.

The project was coordinated by Creative Wiltshire involving young people from Wiltshire College and Salisbury Arts Centre working with creative professionals.  Anyone who would like to find out more about the Alcohazard! project can contact the public health team's manager for children and young people's substance misuse, Lauraine Jones on 01225 775759 or lauraine.jones@wiltshire.gov.uk

Young peoples brains may not tell them when they have drunk too much.

Alcohazard is a groundbreaking campaign to get young people animated about the issues of under aged drinking - The campaign uses a series of animated films with ‘voice overs’ from local young people to highlight the dangers of alcohol misuse.

A wide range of Wiltshire agencies have joined forces to make the campaign possible: NHS Wiltshire, Salisbury Area Board, Wiltshire Community Safety Partnership, the Youth Service, Wiltshire Assembly and Wiltshire College.

During 2009/10 there were 248 alcohol/drug related admissions to hospital in Wiltshire for people aged 17 and under.

As well as the serious health concerns of under aged drinking, it has also been linked to anti-social behaviour and unintentional injuries among both under 18s and young adults.

Although some surveys show that under aged drinking is decreasing the young people who are drinking are drinking more frequently and in larger quantities than before.

Salisbury Area Board helped to make this campaign happen after raising the issue of under aged drinking and anti social behaviour.

The project was coordinated by Creative Wiltshire involving young people from Wiltshire College and Salisbury Arts Centre working with creative professionals.  Anyone who would like to find out more about the Alcohazard! project can contact the public health team's manager for children and young people's substance misuse, Lauraine Jones on 01225 775759 or lauraine.jones@wiltshire.gov.uk

Young people may not be able to see the consequences of their actions.

Alcohazard is a groundbreaking campaign to get young people animated about the issues of under aged drinking - The campaign uses a series of animated films with ‘voice overs’ from local young people to highlight the dangers of alcohol misuse.

A wide range of Wiltshire agencies have joined forces to make the campaign possible: NHS Wiltshire, Salisbury Area Board, Wiltshire Community Safety Partnership, the Youth Service, Wiltshire Assembly and Wiltshire College.

During 2009/10 there were 248 alcohol/drug related admissions to hospital in Wiltshire for people aged 17 and under.

As well as the serious health concerns of under aged drinking, it has also been linked to anti-social behaviour and unintentional injuries among both under 18s and young adults.

Although some surveys show that under aged drinking is decreasing the young people who are drinking are drinking more frequently and in larger quantities than before.

Salisbury Area Board helped to make this campaign happen after raising the issue of under aged drinking and anti social behaviour.

The project was coordinated by Creative Wiltshire involving young people from Wiltshire College and Salisbury Arts Centre working with creative professionals.  Anyone who would like to find out more about the Alcohazard! project can contact the public health team's manager for children and young people's substance misuse, Lauraine Jones on 01225 775759 or lauraine.jones@wiltshire.gov.uk

Young people are often unable to accurately recognise facial expressions and correctly identify peoples moods.

Alcohazard is a groundbreaking campaign to get young people animated about the issues of under aged drinking - The campaign uses a series of animated films with ‘voice overs’ from local young people to highlight the dangers of alcohol misuse.

A wide range of Wiltshire agencies have joined forces to make the campaign possible: NHS Wiltshire, Salisbury Area Board, Wiltshire Community Safety Partnership, the Youth Service, Wiltshire Assembly and Wiltshire College.

During 2009/10 there were 248 alcohol/drug related admissions to hospital in Wiltshire for people aged 17 and under.

As well as the serious health concerns of under aged drinking, it has also been linked to anti-social behaviour and unintentional injuries among both under 18s and young adults.

Although some surveys show that under aged drinking is decreasing the young people who are drinking are drinking more frequently and in larger quantities than before.

Salisbury Area Board helped to make this campaign happen after raising the issue of under aged drinking and anti social behaviour.

The project was coordinated by Creative Wiltshire involving young people from Wiltshire College and Salisbury Arts Centre working with creative professionals.  Anyone who would like to find out more about the Alcohazard! project can contact the public health team's manager for children and young people's substance misuse, Lauraine Jones on 01225 775759 or lauraine.jones@wiltshire.gov.uk

A wide range of Wiltshire agencies have joined forces to make the campaign possible: NHS Wiltshire, Salisbury Area Board, Wiltshire Community Safety Partnership, the Youth Service, Wiltshire Assembly and Wiltshire College.

During 2009/10 there were 248 alcohol/drug related admissions to hospital in Wiltshire for people aged 17 and under.

As well as the serious health concerns of under aged drinking, it has also been linked to anti-social behaviour and unintentional injuries among both under 18s and young adults.

Although some surveys show that under aged drinking is decreasing the young people who are drinking are drinking more frequently and in larger quantities than before.

Salisbury Area Board helped to make this campaign happen after raising the issue of under aged drinking and anti social behaviour.

The project was coordinated by Creative Wiltshire involving young people from Wiltshire College and Salisbury Arts Centre working with creative professionals.  Anyone who would like to find out more about the Alcohazard! project can contact the public health team's manager for children and young people's substance misuse, Lauraine Jones on 01225 775759 or lauraine.jones@wiltshire.gov.uk

Produced as part of the Creative Wiltshire Alcohazard! project by young people working with Evil Twins Artwork at Wiltshire College, Chippenham

Alcohol is high in calories.

Alcohazard is a groundbreaking campaign to get young people animated about the issues of under aged drinking - The campaign uses a series of animated films with ‘voice overs’ from local young people to highlight the dangers of alcohol misuse.

A wide range of Wiltshire agencies have joined forces to make the campaign possible: NHS Wiltshire, Salisbury Area Board, Wiltshire Community Safety Partnership, the Youth Service, Wiltshire Assembly and Wiltshire College.

During 2009/10 there were 248 alcohol/drug related admissions to hospital in Wiltshire for people aged 17 and under.

As well as the serious health concerns of under aged drinking, it has also been linked to anti-social behaviour and unintentional injuries among both under 18s and young adults.

Although some surveys show that under aged drinking is decreasing the young people who are drinking are drinking more frequently and in larger quantities than before.

Salisbury Area Board helped to make this campaign happen after raising the issue of under aged drinking and anti social behaviour.

The project was coordinated by Creative Wiltshire involving young people from Wiltshire College and Salisbury Arts Centre working with creative professionals.  Anyone who would like to find out more about the Alcohazard! project can contact the public health team's manager for children and young people's substance misuse, Lauraine Jones on 01225 775759 or lauraine.jones@wiltshire.gov.uk

A wide range of Wiltshire agencies have joined forces to make the campaign possible: NHS Wiltshire, Salisbury Area Board, Wiltshire Community Safety Partnership, the Youth Service, Wiltshire Assembly and Wiltshire College.

During 2009/10 there were 248 alcohol/drug related admissions to hospital in Wiltshire for people aged 17 and under.

As well as the serious health concerns of under aged drinking, it has also been linked to anti-social behaviour and unintentional injuries among both under 18s and young adults.

Although some surveys show that under aged drinking is decreasing the young people who are drinking are drinking more frequently and in larger quantities than before.

Salisbury Area Board helped to make this campaign happen after raising the issue of under aged drinking and anti social behaviour.

The project was coordinated by Creative Wiltshire involving young people from Wiltshire College and Salisbury Arts Centre working with creative professionals.  Anyone who would like to find out more about the Alcohazard! project can contact the public health team's manager for children and young people's substance misuse, Lauraine Jones on 01225 775759 or lauraine.jones@wiltshire.gov.uk

Produced as part of the Creative Wiltshire Alcohazard! project by young people working with Evil Twins Artwork at Wiltshire College, Chippenham

A wide range of Wiltshire agencies have joined forces to make the campaign possible: NHS Wiltshire, Salisbury Area Board, Wiltshire Community Safety Partnership, the Youth Service, Wiltshire Assembly and Wiltshire College.

During 2009/10 there were 248 alcohol/drug related admissions to hospital in Wiltshire for people aged 17 and under.

As well as the serious health concerns of under aged drinking, it has also been linked to anti-social behaviour and unintentional injuries among both under 18s and young adults.

Although some surveys show that under aged drinking is decreasing the young people who are drinking are drinking more frequently and in larger quantities than before.

Salisbury Area Board helped to make this campaign happen after raising the issue of under aged drinking and anti social behaviour.

The project was coordinated by Creative Wiltshire involving young people from Wiltshire College and Salisbury Arts Centre working with creative professionals.  Anyone who would like to find out more about the Alcohazard! project can contact the public health team's manager for children and young people's substance misuse, Lauraine Jones on 01225 775759 or lauraine.jones@wiltshire.gov.uk

Produced as part of the Creative Wiltshire Alcohazard! project by young people working with Evil Twins Artwork at Wiltshire College, Chippenham

Young peoples brains may not tell them when they have drunk too much.

Alcohazard is a groundbreaking campaign to get young people animated about the issues of under aged drinking - The campaign uses a series of animated films with ‘voice overs’ from local young people to highlight the dangers of alcohol misuse.

A wide range of Wiltshire agencies have joined forces to make the campaign possible: NHS Wiltshire, Salisbury Area Board, Wiltshire Community Safety Partnership, the Youth Service, Wiltshire Assembly and Wiltshire College.

During 2009/10 there were 248 alcohol/drug related admissions to hospital in Wiltshire for people aged 17 and under.

As well as the serious health concerns of under aged drinking, it has also been linked to anti-social behaviour and unintentional injuries among both under 18s and young adults.

Although some surveys show that under aged drinking is decreasing the young people who are drinking are drinking more frequently and in larger quantities than before.

Salisbury Area Board helped to make this campaign happen after raising the issue of under aged drinking and anti social behaviour.

The project was coordinated by Creative Wiltshire involving young people from Wiltshire College and Salisbury Arts Centre working with creative professionals.  Anyone who would like to find out more about the Alcohazard! project can contact the public health team's manager for children and young people's substance misuse, Lauraine Jones on 01225 775759 or lauraine.jones@wiltshire.gov.uk

Alcohol is high in calories.

Alcohazard is a groundbreaking campaign to get young people animated about the issues of under aged drinking - The campaign uses a series of animated films with ‘voice overs’ from local young people to highlight the dangers of alcohol misuse.

A wide range of Wiltshire agencies have joined forces to make the campaign possible: NHS Wiltshire, Salisbury Area Board, Wiltshire Community Safety Partnership, the Youth Service, Wiltshire Assembly and Wiltshire College.

During 2009/10 there were 248 alcohol/drug related admissions to hospital in Wiltshire for people aged 17 and under.

As well as the serious health concerns of under aged drinking, it has also been linked to anti-social behaviour and unintentional injuries among both under 18s and young adults.

Although some surveys show that under aged drinking is decreasing the young people who are drinking are drinking more frequently and in larger quantities than before.

Salisbury Area Board helped to make this campaign happen after raising the issue of under aged drinking and anti social behaviour.

The project was coordinated by Creative Wiltshire involving young people from Wiltshire College and Salisbury Arts Centre working with creative professionals.  Anyone who would like to find out more about the Alcohazard! project can contact the public health team's manager for children and young people's substance misuse, Lauraine Jones on 01225 775759 or lauraine.jones@wiltshire.gov.uk

A wide range of Wiltshire agencies have joined forces to make the campaign possible: NHS Wiltshire, Salisbury Area Board, Wiltshire Community Safety Partnership, the Youth Service, Wiltshire Assembly and Wiltshire College.

During 2009/10 there were 248 alcohol/drug related admissions to hospital in Wiltshire for people aged 17 and under.

As well as the serious health concerns of under aged drinking, it has also been linked to anti-social behaviour and unintentional injuries among both under 18s and young adults.

Although some surveys show that under aged drinking is decreasing the young people who are drinking are drinking more frequently and in larger quantities than before.

Salisbury Area Board helped to make this campaign happen after raising the issue of under aged drinking and anti social behaviour.

The project was coordinated by Creative Wiltshire involving young people from Wiltshire College and Salisbury Arts Centre working with creative professionals.  Anyone who would like to find out more about the Alcohazard! project can contact the public health team's manager for children and young people's substance misuse, Lauraine Jones on 01225 775759 or lauraine.jones@wiltshire.gov.uk

Produced as part of the Creative Wiltshire Alcohazard! project by young people working with Jamie McDine at Salisbury Arts Centre.
 

Alcohol lowers sexual performance.

Alcohazard is a groundbreaking campaign to get young people animated about the issues of under aged drinking - The campaign uses a series of animated films with ‘voice overs’ from local young people to highlight the dangers of alcohol misuse.

A wide range of Wiltshire agencies have joined forces to make the campaign possible: NHS Wiltshire, Salisbury Area Board, Wiltshire Community Safety Partnership, the Youth Service, Wiltshire Assembly and Wiltshire College.

During 2009/10 there were 248 alcohol/drug related admissions to hospital in Wiltshire for people aged 17 and under.

As well as the serious health concerns of under aged drinking, it has also been linked to anti-social behaviour and unintentional injuries among both under 18s and young adults.

Although some surveys show that under aged drinking is decreasing the young people who are drinking are drinking more frequently and in larger quantities than before.

Salisbury Area Board helped to make this campaign happen after raising the issue of under aged drinking and anti social behaviour.

The project was coordinated by Creative Wiltshire involving young people from Wiltshire College and Salisbury Arts Centre working with creative professionals.  Anyone who would like to find out more about the Alcohazard! project can contact the public health team's manager for children and young people's substance misuse, Lauraine Jones on 01225 775759 or lauraine.jones@wiltshire.gov.ukAlcohazard is a groundbreaking campaign to get young people animated about the issues of under aged drinking - Check out the video!

Alcohol lowers inhibitions.

Alcohazard is a groundbreaking campaign to get young people animated about the issues of under aged drinking - The campaign uses a series of animated films with ‘voice overs’ from local young people to highlight the dangers of alcohol misuse.

A wide range of Wiltshire agencies have joined forces to make the campaign possible: NHS Wiltshire, Salisbury Area Board, Wiltshire Community Safety Partnership, the Youth Service, Wiltshire Assembly and Wiltshire College.

During 2009/10 there were 248 alcohol/drug related admissions to hospital in Wiltshire for people aged 17 and under.

As well as the serious health concerns of under aged drinking, it has also been linked to anti-social behaviour and unintentional injuries among both under 18s and young adults.

Although some surveys show that under aged drinking is decreasing the young people who are drinking are drinking more frequently and in larger quantities than before.

Salisbury Area Board helped to make this campaign happen after raising the issue of under aged drinking and anti social behaviour.

The project was coordinated by Creative Wiltshire involving young people from Wiltshire College and Salisbury Arts Centre working with creative professionals.  Anyone who would like to find out more about the Alcohazard! project can contact the public health team's manager for children and young people's substance misuse, Lauraine Jones on 01225 775759 or lauraine.jones@wiltshire.gov.uk

A wide range of Wiltshire agencies have joined forces to make the campaign possible: NHS Wiltshire, Salisbury Area Board, Wiltshire Community Safety Partnership, the Youth Service, Wiltshire Assembly and Wiltshire College.

During 2009/10 there were 248 alcohol/drug related admissions to hospital in Wiltshire for people aged 17 and under.

As well as the serious health concerns of under aged drinking, it has also been linked to anti-social behaviour and unintentional injuries among both under 18s and young adults.

Although some surveys show that under aged drinking is decreasing the young people who are drinking are drinking more frequently and in larger quantities than before.

Salisbury Area Board helped to make this campaign happen after raising the issue of under aged drinking and anti social behaviour.

The project was coordinated by Creative Wiltshire involving young people from Wiltshire College and Salisbury Arts Centre working with creative professionals.  Anyone who would like to find out more about the Alcohazard! project can contact the public health team's manager for children and young people's substance misuse, Lauraine Jones on 01225 775759 or lauraine.jones@wiltshire.gov.uk

Alcohazard is a groundbreaking campaign to get young people animated about the issues of under aged drinking - The campaign uses a series of animated films with ‘voice overs’ from local young people to highlight the dangers of alcohol misuse.

A wide range of Wiltshire agencies have joined forces to make the campaign possible: NHS Wiltshire, Salisbury Area Board, Wiltshire Community Safety Partnership, the Youth Service, Wiltshire Assembly and Wiltshire College.

During 2009/10 there were 248 alcohol/drug related admissions to hospital in Wiltshire for people aged 17 and under.

As well as the serious health concerns of under aged drinking, it has also been linked to anti-social behaviour and unintentional injuries among both under 18s and young adults.

Although some surveys show that under aged drinking is decreasing the young people who are drinking are drinking more frequently and in larger quantities than before.

Salisbury Area Board helped to make this campaign happen after raising the issue of under aged drinking and anti social behaviour.

The project was coordinated by Creative Wiltshire involving young people from Wiltshire College and Salisbury Arts Centre working with creative professionals.  Anyone who would like to find out more about the Alcohazard! project can contact the public health team's manager for children and young people's substance misuse, Lauraine Jones on 01225 775759 or lauraine.jones@wiltshire.gov.uk

A wide range of Wiltshire agencies have joined forces to make the campaign possible: NHS Wiltshire, Salisbury Area Board, Wiltshire Community Safety Partnership, the Youth Service, Wiltshire Assembly and Wiltshire College.

During 2009/10 there were 248 alcohol/drug related admissions to hospital in Wiltshire for people aged 17 and under.

As well as the serious health concerns of under aged drinking, it has also been linked to anti-social behaviour and unintentional injuries among both under 18s and young adults.

Although some surveys show that under aged drinking is decreasing the young people who are drinking are drinking more frequently and in larger quantities than before.

Salisbury Area Board helped to make this campaign happen after raising the issue of under aged drinking and anti social behaviour.

The project was coordinated by Creative Wiltshire involving young people from Wiltshire College and Salisbury Arts Centre working with creative professionals.  Anyone who would like to find out more about the Alcohazard! project can contact the public health team's manager for children and young people's substance misuse, Lauraine Jones on 01225 775759 or lauraine.jones@wiltshire.gov.uk

Produced as part of the Creative Wiltshire Alcohazard! project by young people working with Jamie McDine at Salisbury Arts Centre

Produced as part of the Creative Wiltshire Alcohazard! project by young people working with Evil Twins Artwork at Wiltshire College, Chippenham.

Alcohazard is a groundbreaking campaign to get young people animated about the issues of under aged drinking - The campaign uses a series of animated films with ‘voice overs’ from local young people to highlight the dangers of alcohol misuse.

A wide range of Wiltshire agencies have joined forces to make the campaign possible: NHS Wiltshire, Salisbury Area Board, Wiltshire Community Safety Partnership, the Youth Service, Wiltshire Assembly and Wiltshire College.

During 2009/10 there were 248 alcohol/drug related admissions to hospital in Wiltshire for people aged 17 and under.

As well as the serious health concerns of under aged drinking, it has also been linked to anti-social behaviour and unintentional injuries among both under 18s and young adults.

Although some surveys show that under aged drinking is decreasing the young people who are drinking are drinking more frequently and in larger quantities than before.

Salisbury Area Board helped to make this campaign happen after raising the issue of under aged drinking and anti social behaviour.

The project was coordinated by Creative Wiltshire involving young people from Wiltshire College and Salisbury Arts Centre working with creative professionals.  Anyone who would like to find out more about the Alcohazard! project can contact the public health team's manager for children and young people's substance misuse, Lauraine Jones on 01225 775759 or lauraine.jones@wiltshire.gov.uk

Produced as part of the Creative Wiltshire Alcohazard! project by young people working with Evil Twins Artwork at Wiltshire College, Chippenham.

Alcohazard is a groundbreaking campaign to get young people animated about the issues of under aged drinking - The campaign uses a series of animated films with ‘voice overs’ from local young people to highlight the dangers of alcohol misuse.

A wide range of Wiltshire agencies have joined forces to make the campaign possible: NHS Wiltshire, Salisbury Area Board, Wiltshire Community Safety Partnership, the Youth Service, Wiltshire Assembly and Wiltshire College.

During 2009/10 there were 248 alcohol/drug related admissions to hospital in Wiltshire for people aged 17 and under.

As well as the serious health concerns of under aged drinking, it has also been linked to anti-social behaviour and unintentional injuries among both under 18s and young adults.

Although some surveys show that under aged drinking is decreasing the young people who are drinking are drinking more frequently and in larger quantities than before.

Salisbury Area Board helped to make this campaign happen after raising the issue of under aged drinking and anti social behaviour.

The project was coordinated by Creative Wiltshire involving young people from Wiltshire College and Salisbury Arts Centre working with creative professionals.  Anyone who would like to find out more about the Alcohazard! project can contact the public health team's manager for children and young people's substance misuse, Lauraine Jones on 01225 775759 or lauraine.jones@wiltshire.gov.uk

A wide range of Wiltshire agencies have joined forces to make the campaign possible: NHS Wiltshire, Salisbury Area Board, Wiltshire Community Safety Partnership, the Youth Service, Wiltshire Assembly and Wiltshire College.

During 2009/10 there were 248 alcohol/drug related admissions to hospital in Wiltshire for people aged 17 and under.

As well as the serious health concerns of under aged drinking, it has also been linked to anti-social behaviour and unintentional injuries among both under 18s and young adults.

Although some surveys show that under aged drinking is decreasing the young people who are drinking are drinking more frequently and in larger quantities than before.

Salisbury Area Board helped to make this campaign happen after raising the issue of under aged drinking and anti social behaviour.

The project was coordinated by Creative Wiltshire involving young people from Wiltshire College and Salisbury Arts Centre working with creative professionals.  Anyone who would like to find out more about the Alcohazard! project can contact the public health team's manager for children and young people's substance misuse, Lauraine Jones on 01225 775759 or lauraine.jones@wiltshire.gov.uk

Produced as part of the Creative Wiltshire Alcohazard! project by young people working with Evil Twins Artwork at Wiltshire College, Chippenham

Wiltshire College has just launched a new website Loveapprenticeships to promote its 100 in 100 campaign for the second year running. This is to enrol 100 apprenticeships in 100 days: go to loveapprenticeships.com. 

The National Apprenticeship Service aims to get 760 new opportunities up and running in Wiltshire this year.

The above link will lead you to very useful information about the management of your hard-earned money! Some of the areas of finanace it covers is Tax, Debt, Financial Help and Savings.

http://www.ucas.ac.uk/students/studentfinance/

This information covers the general rights of children and young people and applies to all those who live in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Please visit this link for the full information - YOUNG PEOPLE'S RIGHTS

To find out more please visit this link

As the preferred digital new media partner to the Institute of Career Guidance, the largest careers body in the UK, Careersbox aim is to deliver the right information at the right time to careers advisers and job seekers.

To view our interactive Careersbox Information Pack and more then please visit our website - Careersbox.co.uk

Visit the site now to get signed-up and start planning!

We’re not seeking to replace face-to-face support, but if you are a student, career starter, career changer, careers’ professional, parent, teacher or employer, we believe that icould is an important resource for you.

icould gives you the inside story of how careers work. The icould storytellers relate, in their own words, their real life career journeys. There are over a thousand easy to search,varied and unique career videos as well as hundreds of written articles. From telecoms engineers to police officers, from landscape gardeners to web designers, from engine drivers to zookeepers; they talk about what they do, what it’s like, how they came to be where are and their hopes for the future. Go to icould.com now.

Check out what services in Wiltshire are planning for the next 3 years!

Click on the attachment and you will see a young people's version of the plan, designed by Ben Cooper a young person from Salisbury.

If you would like to see the full version of the plan this can be accessed via http://www.wiltshirepathways.org./ under the published strategies section.

To find out if you are eligible to get student transport click here.

Aged between 16 - 19 and need financial help with transport then check out the Post 16 Student Support Scheme

Find out more on the National Apprenticeship & Vacancy website.

The best chance of getting an apprenticeship locally is through your own contacts - does one of your family work for an employer who might take you on?  Did you do work experience with an employer who takes apprentices?  What about your part-time job?.... ask if they have any apprenticeship opportunities.

It is also a good idea to send out speculative letters with a copy of your CV to local companies who may take on apprentices. 

Take control of your future  - if you are aged 13 - 19 and making decisions about careers and learning check out the National Careers Service and telephone helpline number (0800 100 900).

gapyear.com - year out ideas

yearoutgroup.org – gap year ideas

gogapyear.com – essential gap year advice

bunac.org.uk – work, teach and volunteer abroad

lattitude.org.uk – voluntary work overseas

statravel.co.uk – student travel

studentsabroad.com – travelling & studying abroad

csv.org.uk – Community Service Volunteers

volunteering.org.uk - UK volunteering opportunities

yini.org.uk – Year in Industry

Do you want to explore careers and jobs!

Uncertain about your career direction?

Aiming Higher?  Choosing Universities?

Apprenticeships and Work Based Learning

Cick here to find out more...

 Known to many as the greatest innovators of musical noise to come from the salisbury area (Minus Dave Dee Dozy Beaky Mick & Tich). Their near-weekly Internet Radio Show, or INRASH, is beloved by many and detested by more than many. Ben is the world leading writer of Kids Menue "Fun Facts" and recently won The Kenny Everett Award for Best Jackie Chan Impression 2012. Jack is a man about town, he is a swinging hip cat that plays by his own rules. He makes Charles Bronson look like hello kitty.

Thoughts on Spark

My dad thinks spark is the best show ever, think you know better than my dad? Don't listen then!

Turn Ons

Ben: I regularly enjoy the sweet sound of Mr Motivator work-out tapes first thing in the morning while I paint veiws of The Nile.

Jack: Blondes.

Turn Offs

Ben: "Mind The Gap" signs.

Jack: Bad teeth.

Fav Music

 Ben: The Mars Volta, Faith No More, Deadmau5, Daft Punk, The Hives, I'm Designer, Queens Of The Stone Age.

Jack: I'm Designer

Links

www.soundcloud.com/imdesignerband

www.facebook.com/imdesignerband

Monday:

6-7pm - David Hillier

7-8pm - Luke

8-9pm - Jack and Ben 

Tuesday:

5-6pm - Salisbury Arts Centre Hijack show

6-7pm - Liz and Harry (MusicMatters)

7-8pm - Chris Baker  

Wednesday:

3-4pm - Josh Hall

4-5pm - Bradley & Josh

5-6pm - Matt Hilling

6-7pm - Luke Johnstone

7-8pm - Archie Lewis

8-9pm - Joe Brown 

Thursday:

3-4pm - Kieran Gibbs

4-5pm - Joe and Oli

5-6pm - Will Bridger

6-7pm - Joe Cabbage

7-8pm - Ed Smith,Catherine,Tom 

8-9pm - Mel

Friday:

10-11am - Dan Mcaleavy

Tune in by either clicking HERE, or on the 'Listen Up' link at the top-right of the page! 

Ten top tips for being a chairman

1.  Humour is never a bad thing - humour can be your friend especially at the start of the meeting, it helps break the ice and makes the room more relaxed.

2. Be assertive - being assertive is never a bad thing it can show your in charge and running the meeting.

3. Organisation - you need to be organised with the agendas before the meeting, always bring pen and paper.

4. If someone is waiting to talk - people in the room may raise there hands if they would like to talk, you simply indicate you have seen them and then write there name down and come back to them after the current person talking has finished.

5. Always make time for apologies - if anyone in the group needs to apologize for something allow them time to do this in the meetings.

6. Don't let the conversation go off topic - conversations do go off topic a lot of the time as people begin to debate situations so you need to put an end to this by saying that the current discussion going on is not relevant.

7. Separate conversations - members of the meeting may start having individual conversations about things not relevant to the meeting, simply state that if you would like to discuss something run it through the chair first.

8. Treat everyone like a friend - the key to a good running group is its members, if you get along as individuals rather than a group the group will format and work much more effectively.

9. Keep a helicopter view - review how everyone's getting on with there projects and that everything's running smoothly.

10. Skills - everyone has individual skills as well as needs recognise this and adapt the members of the group to the projects which would best fit them.

vInspired, the Volunteering Charity, has announced that its Cashpoint grants scheme is once again open for applications. 

The Cashpoint grants scheme offers grants of up to £500 to give young people (aged 14-25) the opportunity to bring their ideas to improve their local community to life.  The funding is available to individual young people (or small groups) who have developed a project idea and will run the project themselves.

Projects must be run on a volunteer only basis, there are no closing dates for applications and grants will be awarded on a continuous basis until all available monies are exhausted.

For more information visit: http://tinyurl.com/cff6urt

Click the link below to navigate to the 'notgoingtouni' website!

www.notgoingtouni.co.uk

From May 1^st 2012 Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust will be responsible for providing Primary Mental Health Services to children and young people including those currently receiving or waiting for services from Healthy Minds.

This change will improve access for young people to the full range of mental health intervention available to them as part of a comprehensive CAMH service. 

How to make a referral

Please continue to use the Comprehensive CAMHS Referral form for all primary mental health referrals and forward them to:

Healthy Minds , c/o Melksham CAMHS

Melksham Hospital, Spa Road, Melksham, Wiltshire SN12 7NZ

Tel:      01225 905050  -   Fax:     01225 905053

Are you a young person aged between 11—24 years old

 If you are a young person with a disability (or know someone with a disability) who wants to have your views listened to and represented please get in touch.

For more information on the group or for other opportunities of getting the voice of young disabled people heard please contact   

Sonia Nicholls on

  01373 859485/07500064003 or

email sonia.nicholls@wiltshire.gov.uk

The project was funded by Aiming High and in partnership with Wiltshire College.

The session included:

• Introductions and Welcome
• Looking at the Terms of Reference
• Planning the annual residential
• Team Building to looking at how we communicate

You can read the minutes from this first meeting in the document opposite. The group will be planning and setting out their scheme of work for the coming year at the upcoming residential, which will be taking place from 3rd-5th April. Details of the key priorities for 2012 and a review of what WAY has achieved in the 2010-2011 period will be posted on Sparksite soon.

You may have received a letter saying someone is looking for you or you may have seen a 'missing' poster of yourself.

At Missing People we have a team who support families of people who have gone missing and we actively try to find missing people. You may be registered as a case with us and your family may be looking for you.

Whatever your situation, we are here to help.

We'd like you to know that you can contact us in complete confidence. You may not want to be in direct contact with your family or for them to know where you are. We understand this. However, you may like us to pass a 'safe and well' message to your family on your behalf. Or maybe you just want to talk your situation through with us.

Ring our confidential Message Home service on Freefone 0800 700 740 or email on messagehome@missingpeople.org.uk. 

Click here to see young people currently missing - click

You can do programmes at three levels, Bronze, Silver or Gold, which lead to a Duke of Edinburgh's Award.
You achieve an Award by completing a personal programme of activities in four sections (five if you're going for Gold).

You'll find yourself helping people or the community, getting fitter,developing skills, going on an expedition and taking part in a residential activity (Gold only).

But here's the best bit - you get to choose what you do!

Your programme can be full of activities and projects that get you buzzing. And along the way you’ll pick up experiences, friends and talents that will stay with you for the rest of your life.

 Want to find out more? Go to the D of E site - click

The Shuker Fund applications are reviewed twice a year, in July and October.

If you are interested in applying for a grant from the Shuker Educational Fund, please contact us for further information: Grants Officer, Chan Chitroda - chan.chitroda@wscf.org.uk

A Play Partner is a sensible, reliable caring young person aged 13-16 years from a mainstream school, who is willing to befriend a child (or teenager) with disabilities.

Interested? Then click the downloads to find out more and how to get involved....,..

It has been set up to honour the memory of Rose Gale, who worked with, supported and inspired very many young people during her life.

The aim of the charity is to raise funds to provide small but meaningful grants to young people who might otherwise slip through the net of support from other charities or public funds. Rose Gale Trust also recognises that sometimes funds need to be made available quickly, because not all young people can wait months for the result of an application.

The trustees are consulting with young people to find out what the priorities of Rose Gale Trust should be, but aim to keep the criteria as wide as possible so as not to exclude young people because of their particular individual need, situation, or idea. And, whenever appropriate, trustees and their advisers aim to signpost young people on to others sources of sustainable or long term support.

The Rose Gale Trust – a step up for young people

developing skills and experience
getting training and education
needing help in a crisis
helping others
having great ideas

Applications for grants

The Trust is now accepting applications for grants - full details of the process and an application form are now available - apply for a grant

We will be making awards every month; the first awards will be made at the end of February 2010.

Sign up and become a member.  WWW.mediahubbub.co.uk

By joining the scheme young people will automatically receive the Wiltshire Passport, which will entitle them to receive small discounts and additional services at all participating businesses.

The scheme has been developed by Wiltshire Council in partnership with Carer Support Wiltshire, the Wiltshire Parent Carer Council, ASK and carers.

Already all Wiltshire Council and DC leisure centres have signed up to the scheme as well as 16 businesses from across Wiltshire.  These include a florist, a petrol station and food store, take away food retailers and restaurants, hair and beauty salons, a garage, an independent living retail store, carpet cleaning services and an electrical goods retailer.

They are all supporting the scheme through offering discounts of up to 30 percent off their services. 

And individuals holding a Wiltshire Passport will automatically be eligible for the council’s Leisurecard, a 'show and go' discount scheme that enables people to access their leisure centres at discounted prices.

All participating businesses and organisations display a sticker in their windows, at tills or entrance doors to publicise that the Wiltshire Passport is accepted.

People can also find a full list of participating businesses at www.wiltshire.gov.uk/wiltshirepassport

For more information about signing up to The Key, contact Mary Baker on 01225 771608 or email mary.baker@wiltshire.gov.uk

To find out more about the Wiltshire Passport visit www.wiltshire.gov.uk/wiltshirepassport

To register with THE KEY - Click

The site can be accessed here and features audio and video clips of detailed interviews with 33 young people in their teens and twenties from all walks of life.

The new site, funded by the Department of Health and researched by Oxford University, is considered a unique, evidence-based qualitative study of young people's experience of drugs and alcohol and shows, above all, the benefit of being properly informed about alcohol and drugs.

This site provides guidance and support to professionals in Wiltshire who work with children and young people and their families. You'll find information, guidance and practical tools & solutions that are used to help support vulnerable children and young people in Wiltshire. It contains lots of useful information that young people can access and use and gives a good overview of what is being done across Wiltshire to safeguard and protect children and to ensure that Every Child Does Matter – Check it out!

Wiltshire Local Safeguarding Children’s Board - www.wiltshirelscb.org

This website gives the public (which includes all the children and young people of Wiltshire) and professionals working in services related to children useful information about how organisations work together to protect children from abuse and neglect. Children can only be safeguarded properly if agencies work effectively together. Local Safeguarding Children Boards (LSCBs) are designed to help ensure that this happens – Check it out!

At the February meeting of the disabled young people’s forum the group had a discussion on what where the key aims of the group.

The group decided that the aims for their forum are;

• Disabled young people's issues
• Disabled voices are heard in different places
• Fun and pizzas
• Making friends
• Disability awareness
• To voice disabled young people’s views
• To get involved in how the services at Wiltshire Council are run
• To make changes in the community for disabled people

They also looked at the topic of Independence and what stops them from getting Independence.  They felt that getting a job, living by themselves/running a home and getting out and about on their own was very important.  Not receiving good advice and lack of confidence was a couple of issues the young people raised that stopped them getting their Independence

12 young people turned up for the first meeting of the Disabled Young Persons Forum on January 24th 2012, held at Devizes Youth Centre

After eating pizza the young people decided on rules for their group and then voted on their 3 most important issues.  These would be the strating point for the group.  The top 3 issues are Independence, Access to activities and clubs and transport.

Check it out here.

It is special because:

It is led by young people
It is all about young people’s human rights
It gathers young people’s views and helps them take action on their rights.

Our interactive website provides young people with lots of information about their rights, and support for getting involved in campaigning for change at local and national levels. It is a place for them to share their views, experiences and ideas, and to identify ways of pushing for change around children’s rights.

Have a look at www.getreadyforchange.org.uk and read the latest news......

We have been continuing to ensure that young peoples views are being heard on a range of important sub groups including- The 11 - 19 Implimentation Group, Local Safeguarding Childrens Board, Children and Young Peoples Stakeholder Partnership, Childrens Select Committee etc... (If you want to know more about these groups contact WAY via Hayley at Hayley.Bambrough@wiltshire.gov.uk).

We have also been really busy this year taking part in a range of consultations on different strategies including: 11 - 19 Strategy, Poverty strategy, Children in Care  strategy, Emotional Wellbeing and Mental Health strategy and the Children and Young Peoples Plan. Most of the reports for these strategies can be found on sparksite.

In addition we have supported the Voice and Influence team to run a range of events including Local Democracy Week Roadshows.

Probably our biggest focus this year though is preparing for our Mental Health Conference in February 2012- that we look forward to seeing lots of young people at.

Check out the links for our recent WAY meeting agenda's and minutes. If you have an issue that you would like to bring to the WAY agenda then please let us know. We are here to represent the views of young people in Wiltshire, so would love to discuss any issues you may have. We have no agenda on here for August as that is our annual all day summer outing (We went to Thorpe Park!), and we also don't have one for September, as our September meeting was taken over by the Children and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS). We had a really good September meeting and it has given us some great material for our Mental Health Conference.

We look forward to hearing from you!

For guidance here are some situations which

The introduction of the 101 number will help communities to keep their neighbourhoods safe by giving them one easy way to speak directly with their local police to report and discuss all non urgent police related issues. This new number will not change the way we respond to non-urgent calls or connect people to a large national call centre. Calls will still be received by call handlers in our local control rooms.

You don’t even need to be drinking ......just carrying the alcohol is an offence!

Drinking alcohol in public places can be intimidating for other people and can lead to anti-social behaviour and crime Alcohol is a drug and if misused can lead to serious health conditions.

How does this work?

If stopped with alcohol by the police or a PCSO* 3 times in 12 months you could be:

• arrested and,
• if sentenced you may face a fine of up to £500 and,
• you may end up with a criminal record
* PCSO – Police Community Support Officer

If you would like more information or help you can contact:

Motiv8 the young people’s drug and alcohol service on:

South and East Wiltshire 07825 657058

North and West Wiltshire 07798 833603

Volunteering is a great way to build your skills and gain experience in an area that you want to work in.  It’s also a great way to make contacts and new friends outside of school. 

Volunteering can open up a world of possibilities for you!

If you are interested in volunteering, get in touch with us at volunteer@cvsnw.org.uk  or you can search the www.do-it.org.uk website 24/7 for the ideal volunteering opportunity for you .

SEE you there !!!

Even with the packed daytime schedule of extreme sports, diving through the freebie melee at the NASS mainstay Route One Skate Team stall and stellar lineup of music in the evening, they managed to squeeze in a few interviews with the likes of Modestep and We Are The Ocean. Tune into the show Wednesdays 7-8pm to hear these exclusive interviews.

The musical side of the festival covered all tastes ranging from Cancer Bats and Arcane Roots to Sub Focus and Tinie Tempah and left an impact on our team due to the amazing performances and the excitement and energy given off by the crowd.

 Talking of crowds, the vast array of characters that JB and Mitchel hung out with at the festival provided endless hours of entertainment during the festival's downtime. With the three stages provide great music, they were spoilt for choice in the evening so this write up really cannot sum up buzz of NASS in the evening.

Scooter, Skate, Bmx or Inline... It really doesn't matter what you are into, you are guaranteed to be amazed by the action happening all around you from both the indoor and outdoor street spots and Razor Scooter course. Stars such as Mike V, Lacey Baker and Mark Webb taking to the courses meant that you were guaranteed to leave your jaw on the floor as they tore up courses throughout the weekend.

This festival is highly recommended to any young people and we eagerly await next years line up.

With next year's NASS being a year away, JB and Mitchel are already restless to experience one of the true highlights of the festival calendar. Until then tune in to Spark in the next coming weeks to hear exclusive interviews with Mike V and We Are The Ocean.

Spark Radio would like to thank Anna and all the Relentless team for their help and assistance in getting us there.

If you like this don't forget to click the LIKE button or even post up a comment...

If you are setting up a gay youth group and would like us to refer young people to you and list you on our website please let me know. I would be happy to list your group for free. You can upload the information yourself if you find it easier: http://www.stonewall.org.uk/at_home/whats_in_my_area/2710.asp

The Fit Feature will be released in 2010,

Check out their own website to find out how you can get involved and make a difference in your school or college - www.glsen.org

Check out their own website to find out more - www.queeryouth.org.uk

Party in The Close

Reviewed by Megs Slark 

As we entered the Close armed with three packets of three for a pound sweets and a bottle of sixty six pence lemonade, we were stunned to see a big circus tent and hundreds of people flooding the land of the Close, all eating from stalls and glancing at the stage every few minutes.

As I laid down my picnic blanket right at the front of the close, near the stage, my ears were filled with music from my own school band; Caught in the Crossfire. The brilliant skill was obvious throughout and the blaring volume suited it perfectly. I led down and watched the clouds morph into different shapes for a while. The weather was dry, yet overcast. The band played their final song and exited the stage.

After a twenty minute set change and a lot of persuading of Freya (my guest to the event) we got up to dance. The second band were incredible, they were my favourite band of the night. Kanda Bongo Man mixed bold, brave drumming with brilliant vocal skills and awesome stage presence. We shuffled into a spot right in front of the stage and busted some moves for about an hour, before going back to check on our bags, which some women that were sat near us offered to look after. After finding that they were safe, we got back up and had another dance. We saw some friends and had a quick chat before deciding we needed the loo and rushing off to the (rather posh) porta-loos outside the entrance to the Close.

Upon returning, we noticed some people with funky paint on their faces. We asked them where they got their faces painted and they pointed us in the direction of the circus tent. We went and joined the queue which would have been extremely boring, if it weren’t for the street theatre being performed next to the queue. For half an hour, I watched as a man pranced around the space spraying water from his strap-on udders. If not vaguely inappropriate, this sketch was mildly entertaining.

I got a rainbow coloured swirl around my right eye and Freya got a dynamic butterfly. Best of all, it was free! We made our way back to the stage and had a last dance, to Soothsayers and the Red Earth Collective. Their music had quite a slow beat, making it hard to dance to, and seemed to only have the simplest of lyrics, making it my least favourite band of the evening. We took a seat and watched the beautiful display of fireworks, which ended the evening perfectly. The music from Cirque du Soleil accompanied the incredible display and it was a sad moment when the music stopped and the crowd burst into rapturous applause for the evening. Only because it meant the event was officially over. We packed up and wandered out of the Close, stunned by how fabulous the night had been.

We’ve already vowed we’ll go again next year. Not a bad night for £1.66.

The WAY Agenda For Action 2010-2013 was launched in April 2010 covering four key areas all chosen by Wiltshire young people:

1.  TRANSPORT

2.   HEALTH

3.   THE ENVIRONMENT

4.   LIFE OPPORTUNITIES

You can view the whole Agenda by clicking on the link opposite.  

NORTH WILTSHIRE:

PURTON, CRICKLADE & WOOTTON BASSETT - KEVIN EMSLEY

MALMESBURY - CHLOE HARRIS-ALBA (UKYP NORTH)

CHIPPENHAM - BARNABY KING & STEPH PUGH

CALNE - LANI BOYCE (UKYP NORTH), CHRIS KING & MIAMPH HANLON

CORSHAM - CHLOE LINTERN

WEST WILTSHIRE:

MELKSHAM - KAYLUM HOUSE

BRADFORD ON AVON - BRYONY BLYTH & HANNAH SCHJEBAL

TROWBRIDGE - HAYDN COLLINS & MELISSA ROBERTS

DEVIZES - FRANKIE HAUGH (UKYP WEST) & JOE DALE

WESTBURY - ELLIE PULLEN (UKYP WEST) GEORGIA FUKE & DAN CAMBURN

WARMINSTER - DEAN LYAL & SABRINA MORICE-BROOM

EAST WILTSHIRE:

MARLBOROUGH - ELLIE VESEY-THOMPSON (UKYP EAST)

PEWSEY - FRANKIE HAUGH (UKYP WEST) & SHANNON WOLLETER

TIDWORTH & LUDGERSHALL - ELLIE VESEY-THOMPSON (UKYP EAST)

SALISBURY - ELEANOR WILLS, LIAM HARDING & CLAIRE SHAW

AMESBURY & DURRINGTON - JAMIE CAPP (UKYP EAST)

DOWNTON - CHARLEY THORNE

MERE & TISBURY - SABRINA MORICE-BROOM

WILTON - REBECCA BOSTOCK

If you want to contact your local WAY rep, please send an email to hayley.bambrough@wiltshire.gov.uk

Whoever wins the most and gets their name engraved on the shield will be the year's winner and they will have the option of taking the shield or a trophy home as well as £20 in gift vouchers.

Who I am and where I'm from....

Matt - I'm originally from Essex, moved here, it's aight.

Miller -  Matt made me do this. But it's aight.

Your thoughts on the Spark Radio.....

 Spark radio is a brilliant thing for young people to get into, radio like all media jobs is incredibly hard to get into, so any experience for anyone that wants to get into it is a good thing or if you don't want to pursue a career in this it's fun just to play the music you like on the radio

Turn ons........

Matt - Gigs, Festivals, Tv. Films and moaning about The Sun

Miller - waking at midday, eating junk food, going out, being involved with the police.

Turn Offs

Matt - Newspapers

Miller - Bad Drivers,  Panache night club

Fav Music.......

Lady Gaga, Mystery Jets, The Smiths, The Cure, Hurts, Lupe Fiasco, Dan le Sac VS Scroobius Pip, Mos Def, De la Soul, Modest mouse, Weezer, Queens of the Stone Age, Rage Against the Machine, The Libertines, Babyshambles, Arcade Fire. 

Catch the guys every Weds 5-6pm  Live On Spark 

Associate Members have access to exclusive workshops, tours, trips and projects and discounts to most Salisbury Playhouse productions, as well as being able to work towards an Arts Award qualification and the opportunity to become a full Stage '65 member once spaces are available (although this is not compulsary).

Becoming an Associate Member costs £10 (Freetime vouchers are accepted) and membership will last until September. Each September  membership is renewed, unless a full Stage '65 place is available.

Spring/Summer 2011 Activities:

Backstage Tour (age 8-25)

Tuesday 15 February, 5 - 6.30pm, £5

Acting Workshop and Show Trip Packages

A special pre-show acting workshop from Salisbury Playhouse experts with a ticket to a professional show

A Midsummer Night's Dream

Age 14 -25    Saturday 19 March, 12.30pm - 5pm

The Bug and the Butterfly

Age 8-10    Saturday 2 April, 12pm - 3pm

Guys and Dolls

Age 11-13      Saturday 7 May, 12.30pm - 5pm

£20

Stage '65 Performance Packages

Meet the Director and the creative team of a Stage '65 production, take a tour of the stage and a sneak peek of the costume designs before a performance. See the show and then have  apost-show chat with the Youth Theatre Company

Tuesday 18 March     Women of Troy     £7

Tuesday 14 June         Around the World in 80 Days       £8

Lighting Workshop (age 11-13)

Thursday 24 February, 6.30pm - 8pm

Discover how to create different lighting effects onstage - and even operate the lights yourself, with Salisbury Playhouse's professional Lighting Designer

£8

Special Discounts include:

£5 tickets to most Salisbury Playhouse professional productions (restrictions apply - please ask Box Office for details)

20% discounts on refreshements at the Bar (excludes alcohol; applies only for Associate Member)

£4 off Plays in a Day (normally £20)

£3 off Drama Days (normally £15)

£5 off Creative Communities (normally £30)

Visit the Box Office to become an Associate Member. If you have any queries please call 01722 320 333

• Be or have been in the care of Wiltshire County Council or Swindon Borough Council,

OR

• Require additional support because of long term health needs or a disability and are themselves or their parents/carers on means tested benefits.

To find out more about the grant email info@wscf.org.uk or look at their own website - www.wscf.org.uk/

Alternatively contact the following people below:-

Programme Director:
Heidi Yorke
heidi.yorke.@wscf.org.uk

Grants Officers:
Taryn George
taryn.george@wscf.org.uk

Chan Chitroda
chan.chitroda@wscf.org.uk
Tel : 01380 729284
Fax: 01380 729772

www.ukcoursefinder.com - questionnaire to help you find the right subject

push.co.uk – finding the right university

www.ucas.com -  official information on HE courses, links to University websites & how to apply

thecompleteuniversityguide.co.uk – comprehensive HE guide

opendays.com – HE open days

scit.wlv.ac.uk/ukinfo – interactive map of UK higher education institutions

www.aimhigher.ac.uk - complete guide to HE in England

www.hotcourses.com - search for undergraduate, postgraduate and part-time courses

open.ac.uk – studying with the Open University - part-ime degrees

 fdf.ac.uk - what are foundation degrees?

spa.ac.uk – overview of admissions tests

graduate prospects - what do graduates do? what do graduates earn?

unistats.com – includes National Students Survey results

You can also try www.unionview.com for virtual visits to some universities.

Finance for your course:

www.support4learning.org.uk - student finance, funding and benefits

http://www.ucas.co.uk/students/studentfinance/ - student finance pages on UCAS

Also we are looking for young people to be interviewed on the radio so if you, your school or club have a point to make or wish to get your views played out on the radio then let us know - email jamie.flukes@wiltshire.gov.uk

NEXT SPARK RADIO TRAINING DAYS:

NORTH SPARK RADIO TRAINING DAY:

There is currently no North Spark training day set, but please email Station Manager Jamie Flukes ( jamieflukes@wiltshire.gov.uk ) with your contact details and Spark will contact you as soon as the next North Spark training day is set!

SOUTH SPARK RADIO TRAINING DAY:

There is currently no North Spark training day set, but please email Station Manager Jamie Flukes (jamieflukes@wiltshire.gov.uk ) with your contact details and Spark will contact you as soon as the next South Spark training day is set!

What better way to start your weekend off