YOUTH workers from Thurrock have travelled to africa to help ensure the borough meetings the ever-changing needs of its young people.

Over recent years the numbers of families coming to Thurrock with an African background has been on the increase.

Earlier this year, Thurrock’s 14-19 Strategic Partnership of schools, colleges and the council agreed to join a Community Exchange programme with the British Council and Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO) between Thurrock and Mombasa in Kenya.

The aim is to offer professionals working with the borough’s young people the opportunity to develop, so their wider experience can benefit those they normally work with.

Three members of Thurrock’s Youth Service have been leading on a British Council initiative in Kenya picking up on good practice in promoting community cohesion and encouraging participation.

It is planned that Thurrock will host reciprocal working visitors from Kenya during the autumn.

The Council says Thurrock’s young people will directly benefit from these new links developed between the two countries.

Councillor Sue MacPherson, Thurrock Council’s Cabinet member for Children’s Services, said: “In this ever-changing world it is imperative that those working with young people understand the background of those children and youths.

“Knowledge of different cultures is an important part of creating a cohesive, understanding and peaceful society here at home. It enables council staff to pass on what they have learned to their colleagues and provide a sympathetic ear to the children.

“However, while we have been taking part in this scheme, the council has also ensured that, during the summer, Thurrock’s Youth and Connexions Service has continued to offer a range of activities for the borough’s young people.

“These have included day trips, walking expeditions, music workshops and recording sessions, drop-in advice sessions, attendance at community events, youth activities, climbing wall sessions and residential trips.”