The team in conjunction with Community Learning and Development and Virtual School team have supported 8 care experienced young people to complete the Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme.
The young people have attended a weekly session based at the Domain Youth Centre where they work towards sections of the award including learning a new skill, volunteering and staying active.
The project is aimed at supporting young people who are currently at South Ayrshire secondary schools. The target group of young people face significant barriers to accessing the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in school and have experienced challenges taking part in expeditions where they are away from home overnight. The expedition gives young people a unique opportunity to challenge themselves, work with others and explore new areas pivotal to them completing their award at all levels.
Due to COVID-19 young people have faced a number of challenges including social isolation and physical and mental wellbeing, and have struggled to access sport and physical activity opportunities due to restrictions. These challenges have been amplified within the target group due to their home situations. DofE encourages young people to get active, spend time with others and also challenge themselves to try new things.
DofE is offered universally in schools, despite this care experienced young people can find it difficult to engage with their peers due to a lack of confidence, absence of positive role models and mental health challenges.