ARTS MEETS ENVIRONMENT FESTIVAL
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The result

The funding for this project is for three years, ending at the end of 2008. The anticipated outcomes are:

• An understanding of the identity of the Rockingham Forest area and the importance of environmental issues
• Involvement by young people in their community, leading to a sense of ownership and pride of place in their area, by making a positive contribution
• The development of transferable skills giving young participants valuable experience when seeking employment
• Improvement in participants' health, both physical as they become actively involved in event creation, and mentally, as they are challenged and stimulated.
• The opportunity for all participants to enjoy the tangible achievements of their work
• The development of life-skills, such as team working and co-operation
• Increased self-esteem and confidence in the young people participating
• Young people have improved awareness and understanding of the different lifestyles and cultures of other project participants
• An annual Festival about young people by young people for young people

Printing produced in the Festival (photo AMEF)

The reasons for its success

• The programme is led by young people rather than being a project devised by corporate personnel.
• Support from a Facilitating Steering Group made up of representatives from partnership bodies such as local authorities; arts organisations; environmental organisations; rural organisations and youth organisations.
• Young people working with professional artists and rural businesses to learn transferable skills and issues relating to the environment, culture and heritage.

Further information