With increasing focus currently being placed upon antisocial behaviour fuelled by under-age drinking and drug taking, it comes as a breath of fresh air to hear that Derwent & Solway Housing Association, a member of the Harvest Housing Group, will this year be sponsoring a series of performing arts events throughout schools, aimed at communicating health and social education messages in a positive and supportive environment.

The Global Rock Challenge is a dance, drama and design spectacular which began in Sydney, Australia in 1980.  It now takes place in 50 locations worldwide and is due to come to the UK later this year when pupils and teachers from various schools will each be invited to put together a professionally staged 8-minute event.  The challenge organisers are keen to promote their principal aim, which is to convey important health messages to young people, whilst working collectively towards a positive goal.

When Management at Derwent & Solway Housing Association heard about the event, they were keen to show their support by providing sponsorship.  Robert Porter, Director at D&S comments:

“We are proud to invest in our young people and are keen for them to take part in any event which will enable them to develop as individuals whilst becoming more aware of their responsibilities as citizens.  The Rock Challenge is such an event, and has proved to have a very positive effect on previous participants, encouraging them to be their best”.

The Rock Challenge will be taking place at various UK locations throughout 2008 and is due to visit the Sands Centre in Carlisle on Friday 2 and Saturday 3 May.