‘Youth Matters’ initiative gives 11-18-year-olds in Kendal a voice

Young people in Kendal are to benefit from improved youth provision – with some already having a say in what that provision is. The project is ‘Youth Matters’ – an exciting initiative launched by local MP Tim Farron and led by Cumbria’s youth-development charity, Brathay. The aim is to provide all-inclusive, holistic youth provision based on what young people are saying about what they need.

Two drop-in youth groups open this month at The Warehouse, Brewery Arts Centre: a LGBTQIA+ group at 4pm every Wednesday; and a 4pm after school youth group on Thursdays, both a result of suggestions made by young people themselves.

Brathay is also working with Kendal College, Queen Katherine School, and Kirkbie Kendal School and is inviting students to join the project’s Youth Board to speak on behalf of their peers. The project’s first targeted programme for YR7 students identified as needing extra support with their secondary transition had led to a follow-on Wellbeing group at Kirkbie Kendal School.

How is 'Youth Matters' funded?

‘Youth Matters’ is funded with grants from Better Tomorrows; My Lakeland Fund, and Cumbria Community Foundation and South Lakeland District Council’s Fairer South Lakeland fund and has the support of several partners including, the Brewery Arts Centre, Cumbria Police, and Cumbria County Council.

It provides opportunities for young people to make friends, gain confidence and participate in activities within a safe and supportive space which support them to thrive. As project leaders, Brathay brings experience and expertise in delivering life-changing community programmes and outdoor learning for young people in need.

Brathay’s Head of Children and Young People Services, Rachel Head, said:

‘We are excited and grateful to have Tim Farron and our multiagency steering group’s full support and to have received sufficient grant funding to begin work. We hope to deliver new youth provision, which complements existing services, that young people enjoy and value, enabling the impact on their lives and wellbeing to be positive and lasting.’

Rachel Head, Head of Children and Young People Services, Brathay

MP Tim Farron, who has been instrumental in facilitating the launch, said:

What I mostly hear from young people in my constituency is that there’s not enough to do. The pandemic has made this worse, with many young people feeling isolated, less engaged with learning, and often struggling with their mental health. That’s why I’ve been delighted to work with the fantastic team at Brathay to set up Youth Matters. It’s a really exciting opportunity to give young people in Kendal the chance to grow as individuals, make friends and have valuable experiences that they will remember for the rest of their lives. Youth Matters’ is for young people, designed by young people’

MP Tim Farron

For more information on current provision email: [email protected]