THE Police and Crime Commissioner for Hampshire has urged young people across the county to take part in a new programme.

Simon Hayes has launched a new youth campaign – Be Part of the Solution – in a bid to get youth organisations nurturing and supporting young people.

The campaign focuses on the excellent efforts being made by young people in Hampshire and Isle of Wight to be part of the solution to problems in their local community.

It also encourages young people to make informed choices that improve their own wellbeing, as well as the wellbeing of people around them.

And to kick off the campaign, Simon Hayes is encouraging anyone with an interest in the wellbeing of young people to pledge their support and “Be Part of the Solution” by pledging their support on social media through Twitter @BePartoftheSol and #BePartoftheSolution and on the Facebook page – PartoftheSolution.

Simon Hayes said: “Young people are often unfairly perceived as being anti-social simply by being young and hanging out with other young people in groups.

“This campaign and my Youth Commission are great examples of the energy, enthusiasm, goodwill and good intention that young people have in abundance. Everyone has a role to play in building the self-esteem, confidence and aspirations of our young people.

“This campaign provides an opportunity to recognise the great efforts made by young people across the two counties of Hampshire and Isle of Wight, encourage others to pledge their support to make a difference and close the perceived divide between young and old.”