YOUNGSTERS living in rural areas are to be consulted on their age-group's needs.

Workers from the Winchester Detached Youth Work Project is launching the research to target those young people aged between 12 and 24 who socialise and meet in public places.

Between next month and March young people in the villages of Bramdean, Beauworth, Bishop's Sutton, Kilmeston and Tichborne will get the chance to voice their opinions on areas where they feel they are being neglected.

The project aims to provide advice on benefits, housing, careers, sexual health, and alcohol and drug issues.

Project manager Julie Lawrence believes it is important for those people who do not take part in organisations such as the Scouts or youth clubs to have equal access to information and resources.

She said: "Any young person who meets on the streets with peers or on their own will come into contact with our project workers.

"It is all about us accepting that meeting on the streets is a part of young people's culture. "They often do not meet in buildings because of the rural nature of the area or they do not want to be part of certain organisations or because they have difficulty working within the boundary of buildings."

Julie Lawrence added: "It is about encouraging them to take responsibility for what they want and need and to help them set it up.

"We listen to the views and opinions of young people as in some areas they feel as they are missing out and do not have a voice."

The seven project workers will make contact with youngsters in public places, through surveys and focus group meetings.

For more information contact the charity on 01962 843543.