Losing the Connexion

A VITAL lifeline for Exmouth teenagers is closing next month and the Community College says it will ‘undoubtedly’ impact on students.

Connexions, in Exeter Road, which gives advice on education, careers, housing, money, health, bullying and relationships for 13-19-year-olds will shut-up shop before Christmas.

The service is the latest victim of Government cuts and John Davey, director of services, admitted they were still looking for an alternative venue in the crammed community college.

He said: “It is better to reduce our premises costs and maintain a higher level of face-to-face delivery with young people.

“Our services will continue to be delivered in Exmouth, both through the community college, where we have two members of staff… we are currently negotiating with partners to confirm a venue for this work.”

A county council spokesman said they had no option but to slash funding, effectively by a quarter, because of the Government’s cut to the area-based grant paid to them.

A community college spokesman said: “The closing… will undoubtedly impact on our students, particularly during options time and examination periods, but the college will continue to work constructively with the Connexions Service to ensure provision is met.”

One parent, a Mrs L Thomas, said: “Connexions has helped both my teenagers and now one is already studying at university and the other is preparing to go to university next year.

“Without the help from the adviser at Connexions this wouldn’t have happened.”

County Councillor Eileen Wragg said: “The college wanted the Rolle campus because of a lack of room and now they are going to have to find somewhere for Connexions – it will be a real squeeze.

“It is short-sighted and completely unacceptable.

“Investment must be made in young people’s future or the only jobs left in Exmouth will be low paid care jobs.”

She urged concerned parents to raise their concerns with council leader John Hart at a public meeting at Elizabeth Hall, at 6.30pm, tomorrow.