Over the summer months, mentoring slows down for the Achieve Project, as young people are not in school. Despite this, I continue to stay in touch with the young people involved to ensure that support is still available, especially as this can be an isolating time for some young people. I offer face to face mentoring sessions in public places, often meeting at a local café or park and going for a walk and talk. For other young people, I can offer connection via text messages or phone calls so that young people know that I am are still there.
Over the summer holidays, young people also take part in other fun and engaging activities on offer through the Achieve project. These include exciting trips and days out, such as surfing, visiting the York Dungeons, a fun day at Bekview Studios where young people can try out voice acting for video games, and a beach day packed with games and activities.
The Achieve project also offers a few evening events for young people to provide them with something a little different. These include a theatre trip to see Little Shop of Horrors and a unique stargazing experience at Dalby Forest with Astro Dog.
These activities, alongside mentoring sessions, provide valuable opportunities to maintain relationships and continue supporting young people on the Achieve Project throughout the summer. I am excited to see what fun we get up to this time!
Toni Delaney, Achieve Youth Mentor, Scarborough