CARRICKFERGUS NEIGHBOURHOOD POLICING TEAM AND YOUTH JUSTICE AGENCY LAUNCH ‘THINGY’ APP
‘Thingy’ app is a new free Smartphone app designed for young people by young people.
Jointly funded by Carrickfergus PSNI Neighbourhood Policing Team and the Youth Justice Agency the app was conceived, planned and designed by a group of teenagers from Genesis Youth club in Whitehead together with a number of youths currently engaged with the Youth Justice Agency. It contains a wealth of information relevant to young adults from alcohol and drug awareness, to sexual health and crime.
Constable Shaun Fraser, Carrickfergus NPT said; “The app is one of a kind and a source of loads of useful information unique to Northern Ireland and particularly the local area.
From conception, everything about ‘Thingy’ has been driven by the young people; the content formed out of what they knew would be useful for them in their everyday lives. They even came up with name!
For many teenagers it can be difficult to know where to turn for help or advice when they find themselves in challenging circumstances. Often they are frightened to ask for guidance on issues like drugs or alcohol for fear they'll get into trouble and as a consequence they can sometimes end up making uninformed and unsafe choices.
The 'Thingy' app contains a wealth of information on a range of issues teenagers face as well as a host of names, numbers and links to local agencies and services that can help with any number of problems or concerns.”
Ben Rayot, Youth Justice Agency commented; “’Thingy’ is an exciting and innovative new initiative which has given our young people an opportunity to undertake positive work for the overall benefit of their communities. The fact that it has been developed by young people for young people means that it addresses the real issues and concerns faced by young people and will help them access vital support services at the very time they need that support. Indeed in extreme circumstances where a young person may be feeling severely depressed or suicidal, it could prove to be a life-saver.”
Ricky Linton, Genesis Youth Club added; “Working on the app has been really fulfilling for the young people involved. It has shown them that they are capable of accomplishing great things. Each young person involved in the development of ‘Thingy’ app will also receive a Duke of Edinburgh Bronze award for their efforts.”
Constable Fraser added, “It is important that our teenagers feel empowered regarding their own safety and that we equip them with the tools to make positive life decisions. The ‘Thingy’ App enables our young people to get informed on any issue they face. It’s totally free and can be accessed anytime, anywhere on their Smartphone or tablet.”
The ‘app’ can be downloaded at www.thingyapp.com
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