Blackburn Soroptimists organised a conference on The Local Child in the Web of Poverty.
Two members of Rishton and Great Harwood Soroptimists attended with over 60 representatives from different services and charities.
We learned that 34% of children in Blackburn live in poverty. 30% in Hyndburn.
In some areas 60% of children are on free school meals.
Nightsafe in Blackburn has helped over 500 young people under 21 last year.
The Education service is successful in improving the achievement of pupils but there are lots of other factors which contribute to poor employment prospects. Such accomplishments such as social skills, appropriate communication skills and organisation skills.
There was an appeal for Mentors who are prepared to guide young teenagers in these skills throughout their high school and beyond.
There was also a plea from Nightsafe for knickers, underpants, socks and toiletries for their young clients.
We took these requests back to our club where members were only too happy to help. Over £100 worth of underwear and toiletries were collected and passed on to Nightsafe.
