More than 70 Sandwell young people took part in a summer holiday sports programme designed to build self-esteem and confidence.
It is hoped their experiences will inspire others to take up similar opportunities in the future.
Many success stories came out of the sports activities programme, which was funded by the West Midlands Violence Reduction Partnership (VRP). It supported 75 young people who were referred for issues ranging from bullying or mental ill health to those at risk of criminal activity.
Fifteen-year-old Kayden suffers from social anxiety. He attended a BoxClever Mentoring session after being referred by his youth worker.
Kayden’s mom Gemma said: “I was already proud of my son but seeing him attend this summer camp was amazing. He has really come out of his shell, and he now attends weekly BoxClever sessions.”
While celebrating the successes, the heads of BoxClever Mentoring and another provider, Believe To Achieve, were left thinking of a further 18 young people who were referred by schools, parents, police or probation but did not turn up.
Manager at Believe To Achieve, Nick Pratt, said: “It’s incredibly frustrating because we know the positive impact these sessions can have. Some young people almost feel lost, it can be so hard for us to reach them.”
Some parents told organisers they found it hard to persuade their son or daughter to attend. They worried it would cause arguments or lead to their child’s mental health deteriorating further, while others couldn’t afford transport.
Sandwell Council is working with the VRP to ensure young people’s voices are heard through the My Tomorrow campaign, which also aims to support young people to engage with opportunities in their area.
The benefit of attending summer holiday programmes is clear, as Kayden’s story shows.
Craig Jones, founder and director of BoxClever Mentoring, said: “I have no doubt that the summer camp has played a part in helping Kayden with his anxieties, confidence and with beginning to build some resilience.”
