A NEW remote youth service funded by Ringwood Town Council launched over summer.

The Detached Youth Service is operated by charity Groundwork South who run similar services in towns in Hampshire.

Launched as a pilot service, Groundwork South hope to keep the scheme going on a permanent basis if further funding is found.

Project manager from Groundwork South Craig Lockwood said: “We are thrilled to be operating in the beautiful town of Ringwood and can’t wait to support and guide the local youth into a brighter future and help build a stronger community.

“Our detached work in Eastleigh has helped to reduce anti sociable behaviours, create positive pathways for young people and listen to the young resident’s views and wants.

“We can’t wait to do this in Ringwood over the coming months.”

Detached youth work involves making contact with young people where they are, rather than from a particular building or service.

The aim of the project is to build relationships with the young people and provide informal social education, support, games and activities.

Youth workers operate across designated areas specifically targeting hot spots as identified by the police and other services to help tackle anti-social behaviour.

The two youth workers in Ringwood are also exploring ideas with young people who are not engaged in other formal activities in the town about potential activities that they would like to part in.

Police Sergeant Sarah Gulliver said: “The Ringwood Policing Team are pleased to be supporting the New Detached Youth Service in the area and their important work in reaching out to young people.

“This type of youth work is not only beneficial for the young people themselves but for the community as a whole.”