Two groups of volunteers that we have been supporting to work with young people in their own area are now ready to take on new skills and run their own youth work sessions.
Young Wardens ‘Fit Kidz’ in Grimethorpe and Lundwood Community Ambassadors have both benefited from funding we helped them to raise from Barnsley Council to train and accredit volunteers in the town. Local people have started our accredited training in youth work theory and practice and are on their way to passing their Award.
Volunteers in both groups have responded to the lack of youth provision in their neighbourhoods after the dramatic cuts to local authority services, by deciding to do something about it themselves and fill a gap that is very much needed by local young people. The funding also means that they will be able to offer sustained youth work from January onwards.
Both groups aim to offer positive activities and a safe space to young people in their local communities. They are set to gain new skills, a deeper understanding of young people and an ability to identify creative opportunities to support young people and the issues they face. The volunteers are now looking at other ways they can use their new skills and training to meet wider community needs.
Published by