THE Zone Youth Club in Burnham-on-Sea and Highbridge has become the 30th club to achieve Somerset County Council’s ‘Safe and Welcoming’ award.

The benchmark scheme accredits the club’s safe practice and appeal to young people.

To achieve the award, clubs have to build a portfolio of supporting witness statements, policies, health and safety practice and building safety details.

Valid for three years the award is a condition of Somerset County Council youth club funding.

The award is split into a sections looking at what young people can expect to experience at the club, the people who contribute to or work in the club, and policies, procedures and paperwork.

Cllr Frances Nicholson, cabinet member for Children and Families at Somerset County Council, said: “It is reassuring for parents and carers to know that their local youth club is safe, sustainable and 'young people friendly'.

"Once a youth club has gained this award, it becomes instantly recognisable to young people and their families as a great resource for their community.”

Denise Emery, town clerk of Burnham on Sea and Highbridge Town Council, said: “‘We are very pleased that The Zone Youth Club has gained this award and it is good that the Club has received this external recognition as a safe place for young people to go.

"The town council would like to thank the BAY Club and Somerset Rural Youth Project for their help in achieving this award.”