Dreams could come true through new scheme

Children from Filton are taking part in a scheme which rewards their community spirit with fun activities.

Youngsters living at Merlin Housing Society’s Church View flats are set to benefit from the Dreamscheme initiative in return for getting involved in making their area a better place to live.

The young people earn points by taking part in projects to improve their community, which can then be converted into trips to local leisure facilities or activities such as rock climbing.

The scheme is being run by the community flat’s Viewpoint residents’ group and one of the first events was to give the flat a fresh coat of paint. Merlin provided the paint and the youngsters spent two days brightening up the flat.

Filton Police Community Support Officer Gary Tilling is supporting the scheme, and recently joined residents Michelle Glover, Sally Kneebone and resident caretaker Maggie Harris on a course learning how Dreamscheme works.

PCSO Tilling said: “The kids had a great time – they really loved it. We hope this scheme will involve the children in their local community and help them learn important life skills. As we carry on with the scheme, we’ll be getting the youngsters to come up with their own ideas for community projects they could work on to earn points.”

Merlin’s Head of Housing Jack Bailey also donned his overalls and joined in with the painting.

“It was nice to see so many youngsters getting involved in this project and hopefully they’ll encourage their friends to also join Dreamscheme,” he said. “The community flat is used by the residents for lots of activities and we hope they like the new look.

“Dreamscheme is the sort of scheme that Merlin is keen to support as it helps build community spirit. We look forward to supporting future events.”

The scheme developed out of the popular weekly ‘Viewpoint’ after-school sessions.  It involves around a dozen young people aged from six to 15 years.

The project is also being supported by Southern Brooks Community Partnership and John Lewis, who donated money towards the reward fund.

The Dreamscheme is a youth development charity, supporting communities across the country in tapping young people’s potential as a way to improve life for everyone.  For more information visit www.dreamscheme.org.uk