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Young people aged between 16 and 19 years of age considered at risk of social exclusion have been engaged on a programme of practical conservation work, team-building activities and social events. Some of the young people on this programme were homeless and others had been through intensive drug rehabilitation, so these activities represented a significant challenge for many of the people involved. The project served the regions of Milton Keynes, Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire. The young people were involved in the project through referrals from life skills training agencies and took part in a week-long residential programme. All participants were part of an on-going scheme with a firm support framework to ensure their continuing development as young adults. Conservation projects to engage vulnerable young people were identified through BTCV's existing networks. The feedback from the residentials was positive; all participants enjoyed the project and the majority felt that they had learned useful new skills as well increasing their confidence in both themselves and confidence in dealing with new skills and people. This work can really make a difference to young people's lives, helping to unlock potential that can remain hidden because they interact or learn in a different way. The project involved a range of agencies working closely together which was vital to provide the support networks necessary for dealing with vulnerable groups. BTCV, Millennium Volunteers and Connexions were at the core of the project but it also involved Youth Services, Social Services and training organisations. Planning is essential to ensure that barriers to participation are removed from the outset. One such example is the issue of obtaining parental consent. It is important to be clear about the realities of this type of work. Staff need to be flexible, but we need to remember they are not trained teachers or counsellors and it is important to understand where the boundaries lie. Effective partnerships with organisations with these skills are essential to bridge the gaps. This programme is intended to minimise the risk of working with such vulnerable groups, ensuring the quality and safety of the experience we provide for our volunteers is upheld. Such examples of EfA projects undoubtedly bring many fantastic benefits to young people at risk of social exclusion, however, it is essential that substantial resources and commitment are in place for the project to be effectively delivered. All content copyright © 1986-2008 BTCV Ltd. Registered charity No. 261009 |
