Young people in the town would get improved facilities

Problems of anti-social behaviour in the town, along with health and access to information, are some of the issues being tackled in a new youth strategy.

The strategy, which goes before a cabinet meeting on Monday, has been recommended for approval.

Improvements to youth facilities and citizenship education are planned.

The many positive activities of young people are often overshadowed by negative perceptions. Dover council

The report says current opportunities for young people to have their views heard are limited.

Young people also experience fear of crime, although the report says that crime affects only the minority.

"A small minority of local young people are involved in crime and anti-social behaviour to the distress of many local residents, and much is done to address this," the report says.

'Breaking down barriers'

"The impact of this minority is, however, significant with 30% of crime, often related to anti-social behaviour, in 2003/2004 committed by 10 to 18 year olds."

The council wants to offer youth forums, an annual young persons survey, improved youth facilities, citizenship education, good quality information and better health promotion.

The report also says: "The many positive activities of young people are often overshadowed by negative perceptions.

"This strategy...needs to break down barriers between young people and their community and promote positive aspects of youth activity within the district."