Measham and District Youth Club delivers essential support to young people offering a varied programme run by youth leaders Ellie and Lauren with help from Jess and volunteers Sue and Rupert. They hold sports tournaments and activities, life skills such as cooking, archery or cycle maintenance, art and crafts, and events for celebrations including a Halloween party, bonfire night BBQ and Christmas events. The emphasis is on helping young people develop their potential whilst having great fun in a nurturing space away from home where they can be themselves, build their social contacts and try new things which they may not otherwise have the opportunity to do.
The Sir Timothy Brooks Fund was set up with the Community Foundation by Sir Timothy in 2010 to offer support to local families and young people aged 13 – 25, including those facing difficulties such as addictions. The Fund is now directed by Sir Tim’s family and continues to give grants every year. This grant covered two youth leaders and a cleaner to help the club continue, which seems so prosaic, but has given really valuable support. One young man who came with his mum to drop off his brother felt too anxious to join in himself, despite being welcomed and invited by the youth leaders. “Are you wanting to come tonight? “ “No, I don’t think so” was the repeated conversation that became almost a running joke.
Finally one evening the young man did finally give it a go. He has been every time since and loves it; he has made lots of friends from different schools and really developed his confidence. The leaders say that it has been fantastic to see him thrive.
A grant which enables the continuity of groups like this, so that less confident young people can build up over time to making a difficult first step, is so important and can even help prevent further challenges later in life. The Club is very grateful to the support of the Sir Timothy Brooks Fund – and as it operates so well in an area where some young people and their parents really struggle to afford recreational and development opportunities. It continues to welcome all help to make sure those opportunities are available to all.
