More than 170 young people from across Warwickshire took part in two youth events last week, supporting the county’s ambition to be a child friendly place to grow up.
Held at Ratcliffe Youth Centre for the Girls Day and Bradby Youth Centre for the Boys Day, the events brought together young people from local youth projects and voluntary groups for a range of activities and workshops focused on well-being and personal development.
The events were delivered on separate days for boys and girls to help ensure young people felt comfortable, safe and able to fully engage in sessions. This approach also allowed activities and discussions to be tailored appropriately to support open conversation and participation on topics such as positive relationships and sexual health.
Delivered in partnership with BHA for Sexual Health, Refuge, Coventry and Warwickshire Mind, and Rugby College, the sessions covered positive relationships including healthy interactions and consent, sexual health with accurate information provided in a supportive environment, healthy minds and bodies combining physical activity with mental well-being, and key life skills to build confidence for future challenges. Young people also took part in sports, music and creative activities, and enjoyed a range of food, with some preparing it themselves.
Feedback was very positive, with young people rating the experience five stars. The top skills they said they gained were around relationships and life skills.
One young participant said: “I really enjoyed the day and learned so much about relationships and things that actually affect our lives. I felt comfortable being myself and liked that I could speak openly without being judged. It really made me feel listened to.”
A youth worker added: “The engagement from young people was fantastic. They took part in everything and supported each other throughout. Events like this give young people a safe space to build confidence, learn new skills and feel part of something positive.”
John Coleman, Executive Director for Children and Young People at Warwickshire County Council, said: “Supporting young people to develop the skills and confidence they need for the future is a priority for us. Events like these are an important part of our work to create opportunities, improve well-being and ensure every young person feels supported, heard and included.”
The events were organised by Warwickshire Youth Service and funded through the Warwickshire Holiday Activities and Food programme. The national programme, funded by the Department for Education and extended until March 2029, provides free enriching activities and nutritious meals during school holidays for eligible children in full time education from reception to Year 11 who receive benefits related free school meals.
Warwickshire County Council’s Youth Service operates youth centres and clubs across the county, including Ratcliffe Youth Centre in Atherstone and Bradby Youth Centre, which serve as hubs for regular activities and special events bringing together young people from diverse backgrounds.
For more information about Warwickshire youth club groups and upcoming opportunities, visit the Warwickshire County Council website.