If you live in the north of the Island and would like some support to start a community project in your neighbourhood, help could be at hand.

The LinC ('Leadership in the Community') initiative is a scheme which was successfully established two years ago by The Children’s Centre in conjunction with leading employer, Friends Provident International.

Now, there's a chance for people in the north to get involved, with the launch of a new LinC programme on Wednesday April 21st at The Bonwick Family Centre, in Lezayre Road, Ramsey at 6.30pm.

LinC aims to help anyone aged 16 or over looking to make a make a positive, voluntary contribution to their community.  Coaching and leadership skills all form part of the tuition package.

The programme has already assisted a wide range of projects throughout the Island, including a new children’s play session, the setting up of regular coffee mornings for people short of neighbourly support, and open days to promote the local scouting movement.

"It could be a new community project idea that you’ve got or maybe you want help and advice about putting life back into an existing activity.  These are the sort of ideas we want to hear about," said The Children Centre’s Community Development Manager Janet Bailey.

Whilst the 12-week course gets underway on April 21st, The Children’s Centre is advising would-be participants to fill and return application forms ahead of the start date.

"If people have ideas requiring LinC support, then they can contact us straightaway for a registration form but anyone turning up on the night will also be very welcome," said Janet.

If you would like to enrol for the Northern LinC Programme, application forms are available from The Family Centre in Ramsey, at The Children’s Centre in Woodbourne Road or online at www.thechildrenscentre.org.im

Alternatively, contact Janet Bailey on 631933 or by email janetbailey(at)thechildrenscentre.org.im