A group of young people from Holt Youth Project worked with education charity Community Music East (CME) to secure funding for the project which they have named Bus Shelter – after the only place they can meet when their youth centre is shut. 

Participants will make a series of short films about issues that affect young people growing up in rural Norfolk. These will be used to stimulate discussion on a ‘live’ TV debate show, featuring key figures from the community such as MPs, teachers and police, which will be planned, presented and filmed by the young people.

Filming will take place at Epic, the former Anglia TV studios in Norwich, and the finished product will be broadcast on the internet.

A ‘behind the scenes’ documentary style film will be made alongside the project, following the young people’s journeys as their ideas are put into action.

Participants will have the opportunity to work towards an Arts Award qualification throughout the project.

Adrian Cooke, development director at CME, said: “We believe both the TV show and documentary will uncover issues that resonate with young people in rural areas throughout the whole of the UK. The project should inspire other young people to be proactive in getting involved in the community and making their voices heard.

“It will also show young people the stages involved in making a TV programme, give them new skills and stimulate their interest in the media industry.”

The project is funded through the Department for Children, Schools and Families’ Mediabox scheme. CME is based in Music House Lane, Norwich and provides music and multimedia activities for children and adults in Norfolk, particularly those from vulnerable backgrounds.