Positive Activities for Young People (PAYP) provides a broad range of constructive activities for 8 to 19-year-olds at risk of social exclusion. The programme aims to reduce crime and to ensure that young people return to education, have opportunities to engage in new and constructive activities, and can mix with others from different backgrounds.

This initiative aims to develop young people's interests, talents and education, and engage them in community activities so they are less likely to commit crime. Activities based on arts, sport and culture take place both during the school holidays and out of school hours throughout the year.

What are the aims of PAYP?

• Reduce crime, truancy and anti-social behaviour both in the short term and long term
• Re-engage children and young people with education, employment or training, and help them to remain engaged by focusing on those most at risk
• Provide young people with opportunities for personal development, encourage self-discipline, self-respect and self-confidence, and enable them to communicate more effectively with a range of people and work effectively in a team
• Ensure that children are supported as they move from primary to secondary education
• Provide access to quality arts, sports and cultural activities, and allow those with an interest and/or talent in any area to continue after their involvement in the programme
• Bring together young people from different geographical and ethnic communities to help break down prejudice and misunderstanding
• Encourage young people to contribute to their communities through volunteering and active citizenship

Who is it aimed at?

PAYP is targeted specifically at young people not fully engaged in education, as well as those with a low level of academic achievement. Key workers support young people with the greatest needs, encouraging them to participate.

For further information, see the Connexions PAYP website