What was the challenge?

Harper always sat by herself. She didn’t talk to any of her friends. She said,

“I like going to school but my mates can be difficult at times and talk about me behind my back and on social media. This led to me getting upset and not knowing how to cope.”

Harper, Furness For You participant

What did Brathay do?

Thankfully Harper had taken part in Feel Good Function Well, a 10-week programme focusing on improving wellbeing in primary school. That’s where she met Petra, a youth worker at Brathay. It was clear Harper needed extra support to continue socialising with other young people, so Petra referred her to the social group at Furness 4 You. At social group, Harper met Andy, another youth worker at Brathay. Once a week, Harper took part in activities such as cooking, arts and crafts and board game nights with young people from across Barrow. They also took trips to watch theatre shows in Barrow and canoe on Lake Windermere.

What was the impact?

Youth Worker Andy said,

“Harper has been attending the Furness 4 You social group regularly for the past 9 months and in that time, we have seen a massive improvement in her confidence and self-esteem. She always has a smile on her face!”

Harper now has multiple friendships with other young people in the group. They talk on snapchat and meet up on the weekends. She said, “Social group is fun, and I look forward to coming every week. It’s a place where I can be myself and not have to worry about the way I look and what I say. Everyone is great even Andy when he makes his bad dad jokes!"

Petra was fantastic in Feel Good Function Well. She would listen and encourage me to do things and Andy at social group is just laid back and chilled and is there if you need him.”

Harper, Furness For You Participant

*Names have been changed.