Riverside Youth Club

Working in partnership with Mentoring Plus has always been a privilege and has enabled us to build strong relationships with many young people from the Snow Hill area through the work at Riverside Youth Club. The high level of trust established is exemplified in the story of a 17-year-old young woman who attended sessions at Riverside.

Towards the end of last year, Anna discovered that she was pregnant and chose to share her news with the youth workers at Riverside before any other adults were aware of the situation. We listened and supported her throughout, referring her to The Nest project who were able to provide clothing and equipment for the baby.

We experienced confidence increasing so that other young people were willing to share challenging aspects of their lives in a nonjudgemental setting. They clearly felt supported and free to be open and honest.

During the year we partnered with Bath Festivals providing an opportunity to work in a music studio. This resulted in the formation of a band that learned to play modern music. We also had another opportunity to kayak with the young people and go for a walk with Bath Outdoors.

After working with Mentoring Plus for 3 years the decision was taken to allow them to take the lead with the youth club and Bath Youth for Christ will be stepping away from the project. However, Amy Austin, one of our staff members, will be working for Mentoring Plus providing continuity for the young people.