High Life Highland youth projects have been highlighted as part of a YouthLink Scotland report that recognises the impact of youth work during the summer.
Examples of Highland activities are included in the report, one of which was supporting young people in Dingwall through the Activity Agreements programme, for those aged 16 and 17 who aren’t in school, work or training. This has resulted in many of them gaining qualifications and some of them starting college.
Nigel Brett Young, Youth Work Manager for High Life Highland said, “The youth work sector across Highland has continued to engage and support children and young people throughout the coronavirus pandemic. I am delighted that the report has highlighted some of the good work that is going on.”
Other examples of the impact in Highland are the work done by the Wick Youth team supporting vulnerable young people throughout lockdown, MFR funded fun learning packs jointly created by youth workers and the receiving children and young people, and support provided by the Fort William team in their local community for young people at especially difficult times.
The Lochalsh Girls Group worked together during lockdown and the summer period to improve their mental health, strengthen social networks and develop skills. Wellbeing and toiletry packs were delivered to houses and weekly online meetings were held to provide support and work towards the SQA Wellbeing award (SCQF level 4).
Nigel concluded, “Our supportive presence has proved successful by mitigating the impact of COVID-19 on children and young people’s mental health, learning and development during the summer and we need to make sure we carry on making positive differences for young people and their communities during the winter months.”
