Christchurch Activities for Young People

Christchurch Activities for Young People (CAYP) aims to improve the emotional well-being and enhance life opportunities for disadvantaged and deprived young people living in and around the Grange Ward, Christchurch. CAYP also aims to address social inclusion and reduce anti-social behaviour associated with this area. CAYP does this by providing a safe and welcoming environment where the young people can access activities filling the gap created when local authority run services ceased due to budget cuts.CAYP work in partnership with local parent volunteers and young peopleto create and develop 1) social opportunities through leisure and recreational activities to increase levels in self esteem and confidence. 2) training and skills development for key life skills such as communication and problem solving. and 3) other relationship building awards, activities and events that develop a sense of pride in the community by the young people. CAYP run a fully funded Duke of Edinburgh programme and supporting physical activities and expeditions to ensure participants from low income families can take part. D of E is much more than the award, it enables young people to evidence the life-skills and personal development acquired on the journey toward the achievement. In 2016 CAYP took on the management and operation of the Somerford Youth Club from Dorset County Council which has enabled it to develop its information, advice and support services that includes information on bullying, addictions, eating disorders, depression etc. to support mental health and well-being amongst the young people.CAYPs work is the only service working locally to overcome this.