We work with young people who are 10 to 19 years old, who have experienced challenges in their lives. We use social education practices, which enable young people to learn, grow and challenge in a safe and secure environment. Young people are actively involved in a varied programme throughout the week to meet their needs. There is a drop in facility at the youth centre where young people can atten
d the centre during the day for support with issues affecting them. We provided support with job searches, CV writing, interview techniques, job applications, apprenticeship vacancies, internet, computer and printing facilities. The young people we work with undertake volunteering activities at the youth centre which enhances their life skills and prepares them for future training, education and employment. We work with young people in a holistic way and empower them to make informed choices, raise their aspirations and develop their skills to enhance the quality of their lives and their personal and social development and in the long term improve their life chances. We work with a range of partners such as the area partnerships, community safety and the police to prevent anti -social behaviour in the local community and health practitioners to reduce health inequalities. Young people are actively involved in the decision making on projects, the development of the centre, services and also contributing to policies and how the centre is run. In this way young people have control and ownership, develop personal and social skills for them to become active citizens in the community, reach their full potential and lead more fulfilling lives. The youth centre addresses racial tensions that exist with young people to break down barriers, facilitate dialogue and promote community cohesion. We work with women to provide support for them with their emotional health and well-being. They have engaged in a keep fit programme of zumba sessions, henna and holistic therapy sessions. This has encouraged them to socialise, make new friends, develop skills, gain confidence, improve their mental health and well-being and has reduced isolation. We undertake one to one intensive work with vulnerable young people and engage them in positive activities and issue based work tailored to meet their needs and reduce their vulnerability and risk of re-offending. With young people and their families we liaise with different agencies to ensure that they can access mainstream public services and support so that they can make positive changes in their lives. We specialise in delivering innovative, challenging and unique projects exploring sensitive and taboo subjects which are life-changing and make a real difference to the lives of young people and the community as well as inform the practice of professionals and decision-makers. We challenge historical and deep rooted attitudes and mind sets and oppressive practices. We foster and develop leadership skills by using innovative approaches to raise self -esteem, self- worth and confidence. We are enablers and empower children, young people and families in the community to dream, reach out and achieve goals and life aspirations. We promote positive mental health and well-being and are advocates for children young people and families. We are educators and encourage and empower children and young people to be the best they can be in life and to exceed their own expectations.
