Improved behaviour earns trip

This approach worked well with a marked improvement in the behaviour of the young people in the weeks prior to the trip which benefited both the youth works staff and the estate at large. Only one boy’s behaviour failed to improve in any substantial way and so he was informed that his name had been withdrawn and he would not be allowed to attend. His grandmother was told of the reasons why and accepted that he would not be going. He realises that he will be able to go on future trips however, as long as he earns his place through sustained behavioural improvements, this he is determined to do having heard those who did attend raving about how great it was!

Those who were allowed to attend, boys and girls aged between 10 and 13 years, had the opportunity to engage in various activities designed to challenge them both as individuals and as a group. A climbing wall, high wire, various team building games and quad biking all ensured that the group both enjoyed themselves and overcame various fears. All stated that they had done things they have never done before and learnt about themselves in the process. Communication skills and team working abilities were initially lacking but by the end these were greatly improved and leadership skills were evident in some. All in all it was a very successful event paid for by the Safer Bridgend Partnership and targeted at those who would not normally have the opportunity to engage in such activities and who, through behavioural improvements had earned the right to attend.

Wednesday 31st saw a group of 10 young people, this time aged between 12 and 19 years, at Adventures. Though this group were chosen by the Senior Youth Worker at KPC in Pyle, the criteria was the same, a marked improvement in behaviour during the weeks prior earning the right to attend. As well as the activities themselves the young people also had to contend with high winds, driving rain, what felt like sub zero temperatures and even snow! Their enthusiasm was undiminished however and all testified to how much they enjoyed the event and how they had achieved things they never thought possible. Despite being caked in mud and shaking with cold everyone wanted to take part in every activity and the more confident assisted the less so in achieving their objectives on the climbing wall and team building activities.

On both days the young people were fully engaged by the activities and behaviour was excellent. All expressed interest in participating in other diversionary activities planned over the coming months but their attendance will of course be dependant on their behaviour.