Progress has been made but much more needs to be done – that was the message from young people in the local Somali community as they met with Frank Dobson MP and Camden Labour campaigners last night. Frank heard from volunteers and community workers at the Somali Youth Development Resource Centre, in Kentish Town, about the impressive educational achievements of many in the Somali community, and the help and support that is being provided to local residents at the centre. However, serious concerns were also raised about overcrowded housing, youth unemployment, the danger of young people falling into crime and
drug abuse, and the threat of Islamophobic racism locally.

Local Labour campaigner, Phil Jones, said “I was impressed by the commitment and knowledge of the staff and volunteers from SYDRC and the London Somali Youth Forum. Some excellent ideas were proposed about supporting children from a Somali background in our local schools, and the need to oppose the Town Hall’s cuts to local youth clubs.

“British Somalis are an important part of the diversity that makes Camden such a special place to live. Camden Labour is 100% committed to ensuring all local communities of whatever background are given a chance to have their say on the issues that matter in our Borough.”

Frank Dobson committed to working further with staff at the centre, particularly over promoting training and employment opportunities locally.

Frank Dobson at the Somali Youth Development Resource Centre

Frank Dobson MP with Cantelowes Labour campaigner, Angela Mason, outside Foster Court on Royal College Street

Our MP, Frank Dobson, hit the streets last weekend to meet the residents of Royal College Street and St Pancras Way, and take up their concerns where he could help.

Frank spoke to local people about issues ranging from improving the NHS to the Council’s cuts to our youth clubs, joining local campaigners, Phil Jones and Angela Mason.  One of the recurring themes was the continued failure of Lib Dem/Tory Camden Council to provide decent housing services to leaseholders and tenants alike, including the unpopular selling off of council housing to private developers despite Camden’s 18,000 waiting list.  Frank is giving his full support to Camden Labour’s fight to provide a decent place to live for all, including retaining our local council housing stock.

Frank with local Labour campaigners Jenny Headlam-Wells and Phil Jones on Kentish Town Road