Over the last 10 years, we have been able to do a wide range of activities which have included trips out, pizza nights, theme nights; Halloween; bonfire; disco etc and a Christmas party and pan cake hue. The Youth Club is now ran by Creative Youth Opportunities every Monday evening from 4pm
The young people have been able to take part in cookery to learn about health and hygiene.
I feel that the young people have had a chance to participate in a positive way within the centre as well as within the community, so hopefully avoiding antisocial behaviour in the village.
The young people attending the youth club are of different genders each week. There ages range from 7-12 years. Our numbers are now on the increase attracting between 25-30 people each week and we also have volunteers come along just to help out occasionally.
With the new equipment purchased, we have been able to play table tennis, arts & crafts, badminton, outside rounders, group skills. We also include karaoke, board games, pool, which all give us a chance to build relationships to break down barriers to acceptance within the community.
We are working with Durham Area Youth, and the Young Carer's Charter to make all our young people and young adults feel safe and have the confidence to speak to someone in confidence.
We are now Young Carers Accredited, check out our policy below plus...
Young carers are children and young people who help care in families where someone has an illness, a disability, a mental health issue or for someone who has an alcohol or drug problem.
At The Bridge Young Carers we promote wellbeing, delay and reduce inappropriate caregiving levels.
The service offers:
· Full young carers needs assessment
· Whole family support
· Providing bespoke family action plans
· Support with problems at school
· 1:1 targeted support with the young carer
· Help with accessing other services
· Information and advice
· Young Carers Forums and trips (I stress however, we are not an activity focused service)
The service is free and optional for users. Please call 0191 383 2520 for any additional information or advice.