Had a good long chat with Graham Spearman, who has some elaborate title, but basicly works for the County Council, managing the youth service in the Forest of Dean (which he has been doing for ages) and now managing Connexions as well.  Graham has been consistantly supportive since the time I was trying to set up Music Makers nearly 10 years ago.  He is the senior link person for the Forest Youth Forum, who have been keen on there being gigs for years and have put on one or more per year for the last four or five years.  He also has links with all the voluntary youth providers in the area, including CANDI in Cinderford, Lydney Youth Cafe and Burysed youth Cafe in Sedbury who all have some music activities.

The Youth Forum have funds for activities which other young people can apply for, up to a few thousand. There will be similar systems in other areas of the County, There is also a County wide Youth Capital Fund.  Music Makers had a total of £49K for building work and equipment.  The key is young people (up to age 19) applying themselves for the funds (adult support is fine as long as they have the ideas and do the form).

Graham Spearman and the Youth Forum are thinking of doing some Friday night gigs targeting 14-16 age group at either Royal Forest of Dean College or Westbury Village Hall (he likes venues that are well clear of pubs and off licences!) He is wanting to involve schools nominating bands, but with the Youth Forum Coordinator going on maternity leave they are strugging for time to coordinate it all. He is willing to come to a meeting about the general situation with gigs for young people in our area. They are also thinking of doing a talent show -clearly the in thing to be doing!