YOUNGSTERS will receive a £100,000 boost to services in a bid to tackle violence and raise aspirations.

The money will be used to develop initiatives across the borough and support more consultation between young people and Oldham Youth Council.

Projects will target specific sections of the community in the hope of providing tailored care previously lacking due to cuts.

Sean Fielding, Oldham Council leader, said: “Like other local authorities, we’ve had to make difficult decisions because of unprecedented financial pressures over the past ten years.

“But as a council, and as a community, we have to step up."

Work with partners in the voluntary, community and faith sectors is also underway to identify additional funding opportunities to improve youth services further.

Cllr Fielding believes providing a wide scope for projects can ensure support reaches the borough's young people exactly where they need it.

“The resources build a diverse offer reflecting our diverse communities, and with the voices of young people at the heart," he said.

"We believe this is the best way to reduce violence and grow confidence and aspirations."

Oldham Youth Council’s survey of 2,167 young people as part of the national Make Your Mark ballot placed ‘Put an End to Knife Crime’ as the top priority.

A Youth Council statement read: “We want Oldham to be a safe place for all.

“We want Oldham to ensure that all our children and young people are given every opportunity to grow up in a town where they can thrive and where they can reach their full potential.”

Responding to the survey, Cllr Fielding said: “Thousands of young people have spoken, and we must listen and act upon their wishes where we can.

“We cannot thank Oldham Youth Council enough for their fantastic work as an extremely important voice for our young people.”