BOSSES of a Keighley project which has supported young people across the town for over two decades are fearing for its survival.

Organisers of the Positive Futures initiative say funding for the scheme is being reviewed by the West Yorkshire mayor's office.

And they're concerned that the £66,000 lifeline could come to an end in the autumn.

Positive Futures – run by the Joint Activities & Motor Education Service (JAMES) – offers a wide range of provision to young people, aged eight to 18, in Keighley.

It works closely with schools, early-help services and the police to deliver its programmes.

Since 2016 alone, more than 550 youngsters have been supported by the venture.

JAMES development manager, Anna Shepherd, says: "At the centre of our programmes is engaging and empowering young people, supporting them to take ownership of their decisions and their futures.

"We have continuously delivered Positive Futures in Keighley for over 20 years now. Our staff team is from the local community and has established trust with young people and their families, knowing the challenges that they face.

"The project has continued throughout the pandemic, providing an invaluable lifeline to young people. Embedded into our programmes are healthy relationships, substance misuse, lifeskills and budgeting. We also provide youth club activities and sports and are currently delivering an animal care programme, which was the result of ideas that came from participants.

"We also deliver an all-girls group – supporting girls to live free from harm and strengthening their resilience."

She added: "Positive Futures is funded by the West Yorkshire mayor – and the combined authority – but that funding is currently under review and from October we may no longer have the scheme, which has impacted on so many local young people, families and communities.

"The young people themselves want the world to know how important the programme is and what it means to them."

One former participant, who has recently been offered a university place, messaged to thank the project for its help and said "without all your support I wouldn't be where I am today".

The funding received by the project covers two staff members and costs including buildings and overheads.

A spokesperson for the West Yorkshire mayor's office told the Keighley News: "We are commissioning an evaluation to consider all Positive Future programmes that will inform the future delivery of the mayor’s new Police and Crime Plan."