New Youth Programme For Stewartry

A new programme of youth work activities has been released for Stewartry area, focussing on groups based in Castle Douglas, Dalbeattie and Kirkcudbright.

Featuring a wide range of targeted and universal provision, the groups aim to improve confidence and self-esteem of young people, encourage social and emotional development and address wellbeing issues including mental health.

The programme includes universal drop-in sessions where young people can take part informal education activities as well as enjoy food and socialising with their peers in a safe and welcoming environment – these take place in Castle Douglas on Tuesday evenings, Kirkcudbright on Thursday evenings and Dalbeattie on Saturday evenings. Issue based groups return to town hall in Castle Douglas on Tuesday evenings, young people with additional support needs can attend the Peer Project on a Wednesday in Dalbeattie while gender based groupwork takes place in Kirkcudbright on Thursdays. Friday night football makes a return to Dalbeattie and Saturday nights in Kirkcudbright as well as new programmes such as junior youth groups and working in partnership with schools.

Youth workers will continue to be out delivering detached street work which sees youth workers out in the street engaging with young people and all programmes are based around local need identified by participants, continuing some of the good work that has been taking place as well as introducing some new and innovative projects including one to one support for young people who may be struggling with some aspects of their life.

Councillor Archie Dryburgh, Chair of Communities committee said:

“It is great to see the breadth of opportunities provided in this youth work programme, I am sure young people will really enjoy participating in activities and experiences that can have a big impact in local communities”.

Councillor John Campbell, Vice Chair of Communities committee said:

“These new programmes from the youth work service look very good indeed, I know how much young people value the engagement with youth workers so I’m sure this can have a positive effect on their lives. We can’t underestimate the importance of these interactions around young people’s wellbeing”.

For further information please go to https://youthwork.dumgal.gov.uk/ follow YouthworkDG on social media.