Youth summer camp to banish postcode rivalry (From Enfield Independent)

Youth summer camp to banish postcode rivalry in Enfield

5:28pm Wednesday 8th August 2012 in News By Hermione Wright

A summer camp designed to unite Enfield’s young people following the riots is being organised by Enfield Council.

The four-day camp for 120 teenagers will kick off in Gilwell Park in Epping on Sunday in a bid to banish postcode rivalry in the borough.

The young people, who are aged between 13 and 19, are from ten different youth projects across the borough. They will take part in teambuilding and communication exercises as well as team sports.

Councillor Ayfer Orhan, cabinet member for children and youth, said: “It is young people themselves who have shown the determination to build a new reputation for the youth of Enfield.

“Gradually young people are coming together, saying ‘no’ to the culture of gang violence and postcode conflicts.

"This summer event will bring many young people together learning new skills and trying new challenging activities."

A total of 30 young volunteers will work as youth leaders as well as 25 members of staff from the Enfield Youth Support Service.

Camp leader, Ersin Ramiz, who manages Ponders End Youth Centre, said: “The success of this camp is to get young people to expand their social skills beyond their immediate friends; learn how to interact with new people and how to exchange ideas.”

The camp is part of Unity Youth, which was formed by young people from Enfield's Craig Park and Croyland youth centres. The idea is to support others by bringing an end to violence amongst young people in the borough.