Excelerate Technology has enhanced the delivery of Powys County Council’s Youth Information Service with the provision of two new purpose-built vehicles equipped with the latest satellite-based communications equipment. Using the latest mobile solutions the new mobile units will enable Powys to meet statutory requirements for the provision of informal learning opportunities, guidance and support for young people as part of the Welsh Assembly’s National Youth Service Strategy for Wales and young people’s ten Entitlements.

"These new vehicles will not only significantly enhance our Youth Information Service, but the built-in satellite communications capability will enable us to deploy the vehicles anywhere in the county at short notice to provide communications support in the event of a local disaster. They will also provide us with an essential fall back should our central facilities be compromised."

Mark Kerr, Chief Executive of Powys County Council

Excelerate’s satellite technology provides a rapidly deployable, easy to use solution that enables high-speed broadband to be accessed regardless of location. Each vehicle is fitted with a motorized 75cm satellite dish that automatically folds down when mobile and can be operational within four minutes of arriving on site. A laptop computer enables youth workers to access the Internet to obtain specific information for young people and enable Powys Youth Services to meet key objectives.

The Youth Information Service vehicles will be used to deliver information sessions at high schools throughout the County on a fortnightly basis as well as providing outreach services to youth clubs and community youth groups at other times including evenings. They will also be deployed at local events and festivals to provide information and to raise the profile of the service with young people, partners and stakeholders. The Youth Information Service supports the Children & Young People’s Partnership objectives to provide a range of information. It links to the CYPP Active and Health lifestyles theme via ‘SORTED!’, a sexual health advice service valued by young people. The CYPP contributed money for the purchase of the vehicles after young people voted in favour of doing so.

Chris Jones, Youth Services Manager for Powys CC