YOUNGSTERS in two Gwynedd communities have been getting their hands dirty over the summer in a scheme to improve their communities.

Sixteen young people from Groeslon and Y Bala have been taking part in a Cartrefi Cymunedol Gwynedd scheme that gives children the opportunity to work alongside CCG’s community housing officers over the summer to teach them about making their communities safe and pleasant places to live.

The junior wardens scheme is in its ninth year, and nearly 140 children have participated from across the county.

Sarah Schofield, director of customers and communities at CCG, said: “Our junior wardens scheme gives children a fantastic opportunity to learn more about safety and our work on our estates and to learn about the world of work in Gwynedd. The aim of the scheme is to give the junior wardens as many different experiences as possible to inspire them to think about their communities.

“Last year we calculated that for each £1 invested in our junior wardens scheme, it generated £54 worth of social value, such as improved confidence, volunteering opportunities and wellbeing of those who took part.

“As well as working with different partners, the junior wardens have been working with our community wardens and local councillors on our estates; planting flowers and taking part in litter picks. These sessions have given the children the chance to see what happens in their local areas, and how by working together we can make our communities a better place to live. We are really proud to be offering Gwynedd youngsters this opportunity each year.”

The group of Year 5 and 6 pupils from Y Bala and Groeslon spent at least two days a week with CCG’s community housing officers.

Activities included a day with North Wales Fire Service and North Wales Police, a tour of the air ambulance service, team building sessions, estate clean ups and much more. The youngsters were presented with certificates at the end of the scheme to mark their achievement and to thank them for their hard work.

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