The Junior Support Officer (JSO) scheme was officially launched in the hall of the Good Shepherd Cathedral, Ayr in the presence of local residents, and school pupils.

At the launch were Convener of South Ayrshire Council's Community Safety Committee, Councillor Douglas Campbell> and local Councillor Alex Cairns.

After meeting with the JSOs Councillor Douglas Campbell said: "It is very inspiring to see young people so enthusiastic about becoming involved in community projects.

"I hope that the JSOs will enjoy their active citizenship, and will gain valuable experience of being with people from various age groups, being involved in team projects and providing support to their peers."

Two JSO teams with ten people in each team, comprising pupils representing all of the primary schools in the area, have been formed in Ayr North and Wallacetoun areas. A programme of individual and group tasks has been developed for the JSOs to highlight the teams aims which are to:

•  Promote community involvement and inclusion
•  Increase awareness of the environment
•  Foster an understanding of the positive benefits of good citizenship

At present the JSO teams will only operate two days per week, Wednesday and Sunday, for two hours, and will be involved in a wide range of activities including:

•  A "buddy" scheme for children and pupils new to the area
•  Litter picking and other environmental projects
•  Working with and assisting older people
•  Visiting residents of sheltered housing units
•  Gardening projects in conjunction with the local Community Gardener
•  Fun team building exercises
•  Visits to Emergency Service premises
•  Assisting at fetes, gala days and other community events
•  Undertaking Risk Assessments of play areas and the environment

It is hoped that in the future the activities will be expanded to enable JSOs to become involved in other activities such as anti-bullying campaigns in schools, recycling and road safety.

Junior Community Support Officers proudly show off their distinctive outfits at the official launch.

October 2005