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The next generation of journalists has been discovered in one of the poorest areas of Liverpool. Young people from Kensington have been contributing to a monthly magazine funded by Liverpool City Council.

The initiative aims to encourage children to participate with the ‘Kids in Kenny’ magazine instead of spending time on street corners.

Anthony Farley runs the weekly workshops at Kensington Community centre. He said: “You would not believe these children came from one of the most deprived areas in Merseyside. They are enthusiastic about writing and they all want to contribute. It helps use their energy in a productive way.”

‘Kids in Kenny’ is published once a month and is made up of stories written by the local children. Articles range from reviews, experiences and profiles on people such as Michael Shields, who is a cousin to one of the children.

Liverpool Council hopes that this scheme will encourage children to do something constructive with their time out of school.

Louise Baldock, councillor for Kensington, said: “Our ‘Kids in Kenny’ youth programme engages with young people on the street and diverts them away from anti-social behaviour.”

This is just one of many schemes currently trying to reduce the crime in the area. Louise added: “There are many tenants and residents associations which work alongside the police, other agencies and elected members to continually improve the area and also provide community activities for all ages.”

Kensington has previously been named as ‘the murder and gun capital of Liverpool.’ Last year, there were two shootings within five days and two murders within three months.

By working with the children of Kensington, the council hopes to cut future problems in the area. It is expected that the scheme will detract children from crime and make them more aware of the benefits of higher education, and possibly a future career in journalism.