New Service Helps Young People Find their Feet in Frome
Carr-Gomm launched a new project on 2nd October which gives young people in Frome a chance to get involved in activities from conservation to dj-ing, offering them positive experiences to help combat social exclusion, mental health problems and other difficulties in their lives.
Frome Young People’s Project has helped young people get fit by running gardening and cycling activities, as well as learning new skills such as cooking. Young people have also got involved in their local community by helping community action group Friends of the River Frome clear litter and overgrowth along the river bank.
Funded by the Big Lottery Fund, project staff help young people who may be experiencing a range of complex problems from substance misuse to depression or confusion over their sexuality. Staff provide individuals with advice on a range of issues and support them through difficult experiences. Activity-based initiatives also help young people to try new experiences, develop social skills and build self-confidence.
Cllr Alvin Horsfall, The Mayor of Frome, who officially opened the project, said “It seems people are always talking negatively about youth today – problems with crime, violence, anti-social behaviour. This project provides positive opportunities for young people. I welcome a project that will engage with young people who often feel forgotten or excluded by society, and offer them support at a challenging time in their lives.”
Natalie, who runs the project, said “The project reaches so many young people who really need somewhere to turn. But it isn’t just for people with certain problems. There’s very little for young people to do that’s affordable and it can be really hard to meet new people. This will give all young people in the area a chance to make new friends, learn new skills and have some fun.”
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Big Lottery Fund, who provided £95,000 to run the project over three years. In addition, I’d like to thank Homebase who kindly donated garden tools to help with the gardening project.”
For further information about the project please contact: Natalie Charlton, Young People's Project Worker, Tel: 079 707 090 16, Email:
