For the last four years there has been a ‘Youth Nite’ operating once a fortnight here in Kempshott.  This was set up in response to local young people saying that they had nothing to do and nowhere to go to meet up with their friends.  The only option they had was to meet outside shops and in play areas!

Initially barbeques were held, once a fortnight, at Stratton Park and the Community Wardens brought along football nets and rounders bats.  Beefburgers, hot dogs, drinks and ice lollies were provided and these evenings were enjoyed by all.  The ice lollies were an afterthought as they did leave their litter lying around and the organisers had to clear up.  It was noticed that several of them went to the shop to buy an ice lollies and bring back to the park.  Ice lollies were then introduced to the evenings and everyone who brought their litter back and put it in the sack was rewarded with a lolly.

Once the nights started to draw in the event had to move to indoors and, with the assistance of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, relocated to Old Down Hall through the winter months.  Beefburgers, chips and drinks are available and they can play pool, table football and cards.  On several occasions groups have engaged the organisers in some very interesting debates ranging from racism and bullying to seeking advice on some everyday problems.

The age range that attend is anywhere between about 13 – 17 years and, because it is the only activity of this nature in the area, they come from a wide area - Brighton Hill, Hatch Warren, Kempshott and even Cliddesden.   There have rarely been any problems, in fact the Police, PCSOs and ACSOs have often commented that on these nights the streets are quiet and they often pop in to see how things a going.

One interesting thing that has been learnt is that these young people are all very keen for adult interaction.  Yes, they can be boisterous, but soon settle down after some food and drinks (non-alcoholic, of course).  A lot of them feel that residents in these areas always see them as trouble makers, they openly admit that some young people do cause trouble, but like in life itself there is good and bad in all societies – you cannot tar everyone with the same brush.

They are all very keen to see ‘Youth Nite’, not only continue, but become a weekly event.  However, for this to happen more adult helpers are required.  A commitment of about two hours on a Friday evening, once a fortnight is all that is required.  Anyone interested in getting involved in this event or would like more information can contact the Editor 01256 354282 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

Average user rating

Display 2 of 2 comments