THE Nestl Trust has agreed to sponsor a £1.2 million development fund to develop a network of Make Space clubs for young people across the UK.

Organisers Kids' Clubs Network, the leading charity for out-of- school opportunities for four to 16-year-olds, say Make Space will strike at the heart of teenage boredom, vulnerability and crime by creating a network of new clubs, for 11 to 16-year-olds, open regularly after school and in holidays, providing a chill-out space where young people can hang out safely, relax to meet friends.

Make Space is inviting clubs, schools and youth organisations to apply to the fund for grants to create a Make Space Club. Grants of up to £15,000 will be made to clubs over two years.

Alastair Sykes, chairman and chief executive of Nestl UK, said: "We are proud to be part of such a radical project which aims to solve some of the problems faced by young people today."

For more information call the Make Space helpline on 0207 522 6960 or email information@makespace.org.uk

Updated: 09:16 Friday, February 28, 2003