'DreamScheme' harnesses Bristol children's community spirit

Children from Filton are taking part in a scheme that rewards their community spirit with fun activities.

Youngsters living in the Church View flats are to benefit from the DreamScheme initiative in return for getting involved in making their area a better place to live.

The young people earn points by taking part in projects to improve their community, which can then be converted into trips to local leisure facilities or even further afield.

The scheme is being run by the community flats' Viewpoint residents group, supported by Filton police community support officer Gary Tilling, who joined residents on a course learning how DreamScheme works.

PCSO Tilling joined youngsters taking part in one of the first projects – repainting a communal room at the flats.

He said: "The kids had a great time – they really loved it. We hope this scheme will involve the children in their local community and help them learn important life skills.

"As we carry on with the scheme, we'll be getting the youngsters to come up with their own ideas for community projects they could work on to earn points."

The scheme developed out of the popular weekly Viewpoint after-school sessions.

It involves about a dozen young people aged from six up to 15.

The project has been supported by Merlin Housing Society, which runs the flats and donated the paint.

Merlin's Head of Housing Jack Bailey also donned overalls to join in with the painting.

He said: "We hope the residents like the new look. DreamScheme is the sort of scheme that Merlin is keen to support as it helps build community spirit. We look forward to supporting future events."

The project also has backing from Southern Brooks Community Partnership and John Lewis, who donated money towards the reward fund.

The DreamScheme is a youth development charity, supporting communities across the country. For more information visit www.dreamscheme.org.uk.