The Fermanagh Trust, an established charity with a successful track record of supporting community relations and community development activity is at present recruiting young people to become members of it newly formed YouthBank.

This is an exciting youth-led grant-making initiative operating across Ireland of which Enniskillen YouthBank, aims to bring together a group of young people, from all sections of the community, aged 16 – 25. They will work together as a committee to distribute grants for youth-led projects that aim to make a positive contribution to their communities.

The committee will be responsible for inviting other young people in the community to apply for grants for projects that they may wish to run, ranging from music and drama to outings and the purchase of equipment. The YouthBank Committee will determine which issues are the most pressing based on the needs and circumstances of the young people and the communities in which they live.

But, it is more than just a way of giving out grants. Youthbank is about supporting and training young people which in turn will benefit other young people and the wider community.

Members are offered a wide range of personal development and training to enable them to undertake their roles and grow as people and have ongoing access to assistance from designated support adults.

Lauri McCusker, Director of Fermanagh Trust said the Trust was delighted to be piloting what he described as, ' this excellent opportunity for young people in the Enniskillen area'.

Meanwhile, Patricia Maye, YouthBank Co-ordinator said YouthBank would make a positive change in young people's lives in Enniskillen.

"It is a way for young people to take control of what is happening in their area. It will provide a means of financially supporting young people in areas that are of interest to them."