New adventure programme aims to boost skills of young people in Pendle

A free 12-week programme has been launched in Pendle that offers people aged 16 to 24 the chance to access outdoor skills, weekly social activities and volunteering opportunities to boost their employability.

The Active Youth programme is being delivered by employment service Pendle YES Hub alongside activity provider Move2Change over the summer. It will consist of adventure themed activities including caving and bouldering, weekly walking sessions and navigation training alongside ways to gain experience volunteering for community initiatives. It ends with a 2-day camping expedition.

The programme is designed to be enjoyable way for young participants to learn skills relevant to the workplace, such as teambuilding, while improving their fitness. Upon completion of the programme, participants will receive a Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award and a Bronze National Navigation Award, which they can use to showcase their achievements on their CV.

Lydia Wallwork, a young person who has signed up said, "I'm really excited to join the Active Youth programme and explore the outdoors with others my age. I'm looking forward to making new friends, learning new skills, and going on adventures. It's going to be a great opportunity to challenge myself, build my confidence, and have fun along the way."

Pendle YES Hub already hosts other free weekly activities, sports and adventure sessions to improve the skills, confidence and employability of young people living in Pendle. The service is delivered by charities Active Lancashire and Positive Action In the Community on behalf of Pendle Council.

Active Youth begins on 26th April 2023 with an introduction to the programme held in Marsden Park. If you are interested in signing up, find out more at www.activelancashire.org.uk/active-youth-programme