Participation Works

The Engage ‘N’ You Young Persons Advisory Group recently had a successful second meeting.  It was a residential that took place at Lorne House, Holywood, Northern Ireland in November 2011.

The Advisory Group supports the new ENGAGE programme, a development and support contract run by NCB Northern Ireland providing support and advice for projects funded through the Reaching Out: Empowering Young People programme, on behalf of the Big Lottery Fund.

The Advisory Group includes young people from the organisations who work with the Reaching Out: Empowering Young People programme. The young people really enjoyed the residential and got to grips with both the concept of participation and what they will be doing as part of the Engage ‘N’ You group. New friendships were formed and the group bonded. The young people came up with some really creative ideas and there is huge potential for them to be actively involved in offering support through the Engage programme.

As well as taking part in capacity building work, the young people took part in some games and activities. One activity was Bushcraft which was facilitated by the residential centre. This involved gathering wood to build a fire, lighting the fire and gutting and cooking a fish on the fire. The young people were taught how to use axes and knives safely and the basics of surviving in the wilderness. It was a great opportunity for us all to get to know each other, work together as a team and build trust and confidence in the young people.

One young person commented on the fun they had: “Loved the whole weekend it was the best craic.”

Another spoke of how they liked getting their voice heard: “It’s good to know that young people have a say in a big part of NCB.”

Engage ‘N’ You will be meeting again in February 2012. There are still some places left for new members. If you’re interested email engage@ncb.org.uk or phone 028 9089 1730 or phone/text 07595 272 114.

Fri, 06/01/2012 - 11:59