A SECOND ‘mobile youth centre’ for Hackney’s young people has been launched by Mayor Jules Pipe.

The Purple Bus is a mobile IT unit that travels to different estates across the borough providing activities for young people. Users can gain accredited qualifications for IT packages; access the Internet; take part in sessions on sexual health, crime and gangs; play computer games and take part in sessions outside the bus such as bike maintenance and sports The second bus is an updated version of the original vehicle and features a private room for individuals to have one-to-one talks with youth workers, better disability access and a pullout stage area, as well as computers and flat-screen tvs.

The innovative scheme was shortlisted last year for a Youth Work award by young person’s publication Children and Young People Now.

Mayor Jules Pipe said: “The Purple Bus is a great place for young people to spend their free time - somewhere to socialise, do homework, learn new skills and find out about education and training.

“Having two Purple Buses means we can expand the service to even more residents.

I would urge young people to get on board and try it for themselves.”

The launch outside Hackney Town Hall was also attended by Cllr Rita Krishna, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services and school children from Hackney Free and Parochial School.

The Purple Bus is one aspect of Hackney Youth Service’s provision which includes youth centres, sports services, courses and workshops. Information about all youth activities in Hackney can be found in the recently launched Youth Guide. To obtain a copy please visit www.thehype.info/what's_going_on.html