As the third national lockdown stretches on, it can seem as if our ‘normal’ lives are stuck on hold. To stop the spread of the COVID virus, we have isolated ourselves in our homes which is hard, particularly if you’re a young person. Spending so much time at home creates problems but it’s also forcing Youth for Christ staff and volunteers across the country to come up with new ways to support, inspire and equip young people today.
New Hobby
In Wiltshire, the local Youth for Christ centre is offering young people a new activity that they can do at home. Wiltshire Youth for Christ team leader, Steve Dewar has used model making before at Potterne Youth Club and in school projects but is now providing a selection of boat, bike, car and plane starter kit models for young people to construct and paint. Steve says: “Activities like this are so important because they can help them manage their mental and emotional health.”
During this challenging time, youth workers need to look at “how we conduct ourselves and use our time wisely as we are role models for the younger generation” Steve insists. Before stressing the importance of finding “ways to build young people up to face challenges with patience, resilience and the right skills”.
Kits
Steve has given some of his own kits, received donations from other modellers and recently a kind donation from the Hornby Airfix company, based in the UK. He has so far sent kits to young people in Trowbridge, Devizes, Calne and other surrounding villages and included glue, paints and brushes to not put any additional financial burdens on families.
One family who are home schooling recently contacted Steve to say: “Thank you so much for the kit. My son was excited to make a start, after school work obviously. He really enjoyed doing it and I will be buying some more. The children recognise you from the Pastoral team at their secondary school.”
Keeping Connected
Steve and the team have also been delivering face to face and remote “Mentoring” in schools, detached work and church youth group support. This initiative is just another way helping to keep young people connected and encouraged. The Wiltshire Youth for Christ team also conducted a wellbeing survey with teenagers during the lockdown and their report and conclusions are out now.