Making a difference to the lives of young people (13-25) in the Sherborne area for over 20 years
Being young can be a struggle and social, academic and financial pressures are affecting the mental health of our young people. Those living in rural villages and small towns face the added hurdles of lack of opportunities. This is where our team of youth workers and counsellors step in - providing 1:1 support for those struggling with mental health; advice and information for those needing help with housing & benefits and English/Maths Level 2 qualifications and help into college or employment.
Why the community needs usWe are supporting the most needy young people when family and the system fails them and providing them high quality help and support where there would be none. But, our impact goes beyond that. We are increasingly providing support for parents struggling with their families; we offer, meaningful volunteering opportunities and our Friends' organisation runs twice-weekly fundraising coffee mornings for the older members of our communities to get together and reduce isolation.
Our impact on the communityWe work with over 350 young people every year. Sometimes the difference is quickly seen - reduced levels of self-harm, improved mental health, confidence to end an abusive relationship, money management, qualifications to get jobs or go to college, or finding somewhere to live... At other times the real impact is only seen years later when someone pops in and says "Look at me now - good job, family, own house - I'd still be in and out of prison if it wasn't for your help."