Bracknell

A spot of afternoon tea gave the Mayor and Mayoress of the Borough of Bracknell Forest an insight into the hopes and aspirations of young people living at Rainforest Walk when he stopped off for a cuppa and a chat last Thursday.

Bracknell Cllr Clifton Thompson and his wife Sue visited Rainforest Walk in Easthampstead to see what the youngsters living there are hoping to achieve and have a general chat.

Rainforest Walk provides a home to 20 young people aged between 16 and 25, who live independently in their own flats but also have support available 24 hours a day to provide a safe environment where they can learn life skills, pursue training, education and employment.

Rainforest Walk is owned and managed by Look Ahead Housing and Care and Bracknell Council refers young people to the scheme - many of whom have faced difficulties in their lives.

During the visit Cllr Thompson and Mrs Thompson were also given a guided tour of Rainforest Walk by residents. They saw the accommodation while the Bracknell residents told the Mayor and Mayoress about some of the qualifications they are studying for and what career goals they have for the future.

Cllr Thompson said: "It was really refreshing to meet the young residents living at Rainforest Walk last week. I was really pleased to listen to what they had to say and to hear all about what goals and aspirations they have.

"Rainforest Walk really does give the residents a good opportunity to develop their prospects and I wish them every success in the future."

Ashley Farquharson, Rainforest Walk's Acting Contract Manager said: "The Mayor's visit to Rainforest Walk provided our residents with a fantastic opportunity to ask him questions about local government."It also enabledthem to share with the Mayor the hard work they are putting into taking control of their lives.

"We all really appreciated the interest he showed and enjoyed having an opportunity to show him what positive steps residents are making at Rainforest Walk."

Bracknell Forest Borough Council