Executive Summary
shmu’s CashBack NorthEast programme helps young people overcome personal barriers and avoid anti-social behaviour and (re)offending, through three core projects.
Our Youth Media project supports 10 to 18-year-olds from regeneration areas of Aberdeen (0-20% SIMD) to participate in media related activities;
our Training Academy works with school leavers identified as unlikely to achieve a positive destination, and young people who have left school and require one-to-one support;
and Engage works with young people who are already justice experienced with a focus on breaking their cycle of offending. This report demonstrates why our CashBack NorthEast model is effective in supporting the realisation of the Scottish Government’s CashBack outcomes.
360 young people engaged in our programme in its first year (69% of the 3-year target), with high levels of engagement and evidence of improved wellbeing, community involvement, and supportive networks of those who took part. Another notable achievement was in positive destinations with 40% of the target for college/university placements for the three years of the programme achieved in the first year alone.
Our programme also exceeded targets for community engagement, with high levels of volunteering and increasing positive perceptions of communities, while it was clear that the programme was having a considerable impact on the development of personal skills, resilience, and supportive networks.
The impact of our programme is clearly evidenced through the three case studies included in this report, with those young people featured showing how they have overcome significant personal challenges, increased their confidence, motivation, technical skills and academic attainment, leading to clearer career aspirations, improved mental health, and sustained positive destinations.
The first year of our programme has had its challenges, with difficulties in capturing a reduction in antisocial behaviour and capturing mental health improvements, although this may be due to underreporting which has led to a review and areas for improvement in our evaluation methodology.
In the first year of the programme our organisation has enhanced our capacity through strategic and operational staff appointments and training. We have also developed new facilities in recognition of the expanding programme of work, including a dedicated film and music recording studio in Torry, another of Aberdeen’s priority areas. We have also used the year to strengthen collaborations and partnership working with third-sector partners, organisations and community justice partners to further support justice-experienced young people to take part in our programme.
Our focus moving forward will be building on the strengths outlined in this report, while recognising the areas where we have had less impact than we had hoped in our first year of the programme. This will include the integration of accredited and community awards across the programme; developing taster activities to increase recruitment and partnerships; developing relationships with new schools; expanding the service into Aberdeenshire; developing follow-on courses for continued engagement; and enhancing justice-related referrals
The CashBack NorthEast programme has demonstrated substantial progress in its first year, with significant achievements in participant engagement, skill development, and community involvement. By addressing identified challenges and leveraging strategic partnerships, the programme is well-positioned to continue its impressive and positive impact in the coming years.
“Being part of Youth Media makes me feel very important and very welcome, I like the people here.”
Youth Media participant
Introduction
CashBack for Communities is the Scottish Government’s programme which repurposes money seized from proceeds of crime into projects for young people who face disadvantage. Phase 6 of the programme runs from 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2026 with an increased overall programme budget of up to £20 million for 29 projects; Station House Media Unit’s (shmu) CashBack NorthEast received £348,210.
CashBack NorthEast is funded to work with over 500 young people in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire over three years. With a focus on creative approaches and media, the programme seeks to help young people overcome personal barriers and avoid anti-social behaviour and (re)-offending.
The funding supports three projects:
Youth Media supports 10 to 18 year-olds from the regeneration areas of Aberdeen to participate in media related activities. The project works with young people at risk of involvement in anti-social and offending behaviour and uses person-centred creative opportunities to support active participation across a range of media platforms, supporting their personal development and progression.
shmu Training Academy provides a coordinated package of support for summer and winter school leavers who have been identified as unlikely to achieve a positive destination. Providing support both in school and at our base in Aberdeen, the programme re-engages those who are struggling in the Senior Phase at school and supports them through the transition into work, further education or training. It also supports young people who have left school and require personalised one-to-one support to begin their journey along the employability pipeline.
Engage is delivered in the community with young people who are justice experienced, or face considerable personal challenges, with a focus on breaking their cycle of offending. Media is used as a tool for engagement, providing meaningful group activity and opportunities for ongoing volunteering, with our support service providing a wraparound holistic and person-centred package of support to assist the journey away from offending, towards a more positive and stable life within our communities.
This report provides a general update on activities in the first year of our CashBack NorthEast programme, covering:
· An overview of participation and performance across our projects
· Updates on the three CashBack NorthEast projects (Youth Media, Training Academy, and Engage)
· Three case studies that illustrate each project’s delivery model and impact
Organisational update
· Communications report
· Financial Report
· A summary of how our programme is contributing to key Scottish Government Policy areas
· Plans for Year 2 of the CashBack NorthEast programme
“We have quite low attainment for most in the current class, with regards to literacy, so this was a great opportunity to hear their work, regardless of how well they could ‘write’ the initial script.”
Teacher (relating to Speak Out)
“This place makes me feel good”
Youth Media participant
Year 1 Engagement
12
Social or behavioural Mobility Dexterity Learning, understanding or concentrating Hearing
1
1
2
“I
would say if you see there’s a course at shmu and its something that interests you should definitely go and do it as it’s a great opportunity to learn new techniques and to make lots of new friends.”
Young Person
Year 1 Outcomes
Young people report that their own participation in antisocial and/or criminal behaviour has reduced
Young people report that they feel less inclined to participate in antisocial and/or criminal behaviour
Young people gain an accreditation for a new skill
Young people report an improved relationship with their school
Young people's attendance at school improves
Progression outcomes after completion of the programme; the number of participants gaining/taking up: Modern Apprenticeship/Employment
Progression outcomes after completion of the programme; the number of participants gaining/taking up: Training/Work Experience
Progression outcomes after completion of the programme; the number of participants gaining/taking up: College/University placement
Progression outcomes after completion of the programme; the number of participants gaining/taking up: Volunteering
people report an increase in feelings against SHANARRI indicators: Safety, Health, Achievement, Nurture, Activity, Respect, Responsibility, Inclusion
Young people report their mental health has improved and they have a more positive outlook on life
Young people report they are more aware of the risks and impacts of harmful substance use
Young people report they are less inclined to engage in harmful drugs and/or alcohol use
Young people report their confidence has increased
Young people report evidence of participation in physical and sporting activities
Young
Outcome 1: Young people are diverted from antisocial, criminal behaviour and involvement with
Outcome 2: Young people
Outcome 3: Young people’s health and well-being improves
Young people report their perception of their neighbourhood improves
Young people report a heightened sense of belonging to a community
Young people report feeling their contribution, links with communities and social interaction are improving
Young people report increased motivation to positively influence what happens in their community
Young people go on to volunteer, coach, mentor, support or take a leadership role in community organisations
Hours of volunteering contributed by participants
Community focused awards gained by participants
Young people report feeling more resilient (e.g. believing in yourself, taking things in your stride, being determined, being self-disciplined, being optimistic, adapting to different situations)
Young people report positive, supportive networks – including improved relationships with family, friends and peer mentors
Young people report increased access to appropriate services
Young people report positive changes in their behaviour (e.g. reduced risk taking/ increased understanding of risk/ better ability to make positive choices/ improved understanding of rights and responsibilities)
Outcome 4: Young people contribute positively to their communities
Outcome 5: Young people build their personal skills, resilience, and benefit from strengthened support networks and reduce risk
Outcome Analysis
As with any new program, it can take time to see the full impact of our work with young people. Consequently, some aspects of our CashBack NorthEast program have not met our initial Year 1 expectations, while others have surpassed them.
The CashBack NorthEast program has seen considerable success in engaging participants, improving wellbeing, fostering community involvement, and building supportive networks. However, challenges remain in reducing antisocial behaviour, improving employability outcomes, and accurately capturing mental health and resilience improvements. We plan to address these issues through enhanced collaboration, targeted interventions, and improved evaluation methods.
Additionally, we have identified positive outcomes that were not initially anticipated and will continue to capture these impacts in Years 2 and 3 of our programme.
Impact
In addition to exceeding the number of new participants anticipated during the first year of our CashBack NorthEast (already securing 69% of the 3-year target), there are several outcomes where we are on track for higher than projected achievements. There are also areas where we have identified that we are behind target. We will focus on these outcomes in Year 2, with a plan for each indicator to ensure we are on track to achieve the targets by the end of the 3-year program.
Outcome 1: Young people are diverted from antisocial, criminal behaviour and involvement with the justice system
Area for Development
The Engage programme offers positive, meaningful activities to divert young people from antisocial behaviour, however many participants do not recognise their behaviour as risk-taking, which affects self-reporting. Referrals often stem from those affected by mental health issues, isolation, and challenging life circumstances, rather than antisocial behaviour. A strategic, collaborative approach is being developed to improve engagement with at-risk young people in Years 2 and 3. This will include collaboration with justice-focused partners to increase support to young people with justice experience. Partnerships with HMP Grampian and Community Justice Scotland will also aim to enhance support for prison leavers and justice-experienced young people.
Outcome 2: Young people participate in activity which improves their learning, employability and employment options (positive destinations)
Success
Many participants had negative experiences with formal education but benefited from positive learning experiences through our activities. Participants reported feeling accepted and respected, leading to increased aspirations and confidence in exploring new opportunities. Regular attendance and enjoyment of the CashBack NorthEast project contributed to participants’ engagement and skill development. This support has resulted in many young people progressing to further or higher education, with improved routines, motivation, and commitment to learning.
Area for Development
Sustained progression outcomes require longer-term engagement, with significant increases expected in Year 2. Staff training in Dynamic Youth Awards will increase the number securing accreditation and boost young people’s academic confidence and attainment.
Our Engage courses primarily serve those over 18, making school-related outcomes less relevant.
The course aims to build confidence, self-esteem, and skills, encouraging further education or employability paths, however, due to the scale of the personal challenges faced, participants often continue onto other courses or volunteer until ready for further steps.
Outcome 3: Young people’s health, mental health and wellbeing improves
Success
Community media is an effective tool for enhancing wellbeing, aligning with SHANARRI indicators, with participants reporting improved overall wellbeing through the CashBack NorthEast projects.
Our projects explored health and wellbeing topics, increasing personal awareness and understanding. Participants had the opportunity to engage with healthcare professionals, broadening their understanding of health. Activities, such as outdoor group projects and media creation promoted taking breaks from digital screens. Participants reported developing new skills in a supportive environment, for example speaking on the radio, which boosted confidence and expanded their interests.
Area for Development
Given our success in relation to SHANARRI indicators and the outcomes relating to young people contributing positively to their communities, it is likely that we are underreporting improvements in mental health due to challenges in self-identification by young people. We are
putting in place plans to enhance data collection methods to better reflect achievements, including using media content for evidence. Engage program participants often face significant mental health issues, making their progress seem minimal to them despite observed improvements.
Outcome 4: Young people contribute positively to their communities
Success
Participants collaborated across various community media projects, breaking down geographical boundaries and fostering a sense of belonging. The programme also promoted active citizenship, challenging negative stereotypes of young people. Social action projects helped participants understand their role in community improvement, with example including advocating for a ban on disposable vapes and engaging in community clean-ups, enhancing local health and environment.
Area for Development
We will embed community focussed awards into our programmes for Year’s 2 and 3.
Outcome 5: Young people build their personal skills, resilience, and benefit from strengthened support networks and reduce risk taking behaviour
Success
Young people who took part in our programme showed increased resilience, self-esteem, and optimism about their future. Opportunities for skill development and ongoing support are provided through volunteering opportunities. Participants have established new friendships and supportive networks, improving peer relationships and social interactions. Our programmes offer both in-session and one-to-one support, with access to a range of specialist services including financial, employability, and mental health support.
Area for Development
Again, considering our success in relation to SHANARRI indicators and increased confidence in our participants, it is likely that we are underreporting improvements in resilience and behaviour due to self-identification challenges. As a result, we are enhancing data collection methods to better reflect achievements. We recognise that participants often find it difficult to recognise and articulate improvements in resilience, so we plan to build in specific activities that will support evidence gathering for resilience and behavioural changes.
“Thank you so much for reaching out and sharing the incredible content that A has participated in during her sessions at SHMU over the summer break. The work she has contributed to is awe-inspiring, and I appreciate the opportunity to witness her creative journey through these links.”
Youth Media Parent
“shmu provide a fun, efficient and welcoming environment that promotes positivity in learning and pointing people in the right directions. I certainly feel as though it greatly improved all aspects of employability especially making interview techniques and approaching establishments easier.
As of now post shmu course I have enrolled in inverurie academy progressing passions through education, I'm also on track to doing a criminology course in college. Thanks for all the help.”
Training Academy participant
Youth Media
Summary
Our CashBack NorthEast Youth Media project has had a substantially positive impact on participants' wellbeing, social connections, and skills development. Through diverse projects and partnerships, it has empowered young people to create meaningful content, advocate for social issues, and engage in community activities. The programme's success is in fostering youth leadership and providing professional development opportunities for staff through its comprehensive approach to youth empowerment and community engagement.
Wellbeing
Over the first year of the project, we have focussed on embedding a range of new youth activities and enhancing the wellbeing support offered to participants through consistency in staffing, staff training, and implementing a process of regular wellbeing check-ins.
Youth wellbeing has been supported through a range of activities; from input from the Red Cross on youth resilience, to exciting Christmas trips that included ten-pin bowling, a cinema trip and a Panto trip. We also provided healthy snacks at all sessions, responding to feedback from participants who had requested healthy savoury snacks. The young people spent time outdoors planting bulbs and litter picking, whilst taking photos and filming footage. These activities supported the development of social connections whilst also encouraging time away
from screens, being active and supporting our communities.
Content Creation and Partnership Projects
We collaborated closely with Barnardo’s Young Carers on a joint project, empowering a group of young carers to lead the creation of a short film highlighting their personal experiences in Aberdeen. This film will be incorporated into a training resource aimed at raising awareness about the support available for young carers within the city.
Our Youth Work and Filmmaking staff have partnered with the Fersands and Fountain Community Project, working with their Young Promoters team. Using an outreach delivery model, our staff have guided these young people in supporting the marketing and promotion of community events through the creation of film and social media content
A significant project this year was a short visual podcast film commissioned by the Children and Young People's Commissioner for Scotland. This project captured the views of young people from across Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire, focusing on children’s rights and the issues they believe the Commissioner should prioritise on their behalf. The issues raised were diverse, ranging from concerns about community littering to fears for personal safety. The content will inform the Commissioner’s future strategy.
Young CashBack NorthEast participants also took part in a multi-agency Cost-of-Living campaign, which won the Celebrate Aberdeen Best Campaign award for 2023. The young people shared their experiences and insights on the impact of poverty on individuals, families, and communities. They also enjoyed taking part in the annual Celebrate Aberdeen Parade, which included a march down Union Street
Throughout the year, participants in our weekly Youth Media project have consistently produced live radio shows, providing the youth perspective on a variety of current topics. Several senior participants have mentored newer members while also creating their own weekly “Senior Youth” radio show, where the views of young people aged 16 and older are shared with our communities.
Youth Social Action
Over the first year of our CashBack NorthEast programme, we have continued to benefit from matched funding from Children in Need’s Youth Social Action initiative. This support has enabled us to offer a broad range of sessions featuring external speakers for our Youth Media participants, exploring various ways for young people to make their voices heard and effect change within their communities. These methods range from formal structures such as the Scottish Youth Parliament to informal actions like participating in demonstrations and using art to express opinions.
Early on, participants in our Youth Social Action activities identified LGBTQ+ prejudice as a pressing issue within their peer groups. In response, we collaborated with a local charity, 4 Pillars, so participants could learn about challenging intolerance and becoming allies to the LGBTQ+ community. Participants also enjoyed engaging with and interviewing 4 Pillars staff as part of their radio show.
Additionally, our young people have been utilising their filmmaking and live radio platforms to raise awareness and encourage positive social action. In September 2023, Youth Media participants took to the streets of Woodside for a litter pick, capturing photographs and filming footage of the evidence of climate change within their community. This activity provided an enjoyable opportunity to be outdoors, appreciate the local area, and contribute to its improvement. Furthermore, the participants created a short film to encourage their peers to spend less time on screens and more time outdoors. This film will premiere at the Northern Lens Youth Film Festival, part of the Light the Blue festival in Aberdeen in June 2024
Live Lounge
Our youth volunteers have demonstrated exceptional dedication this year by spearheading a series of Live Lounge performances. They took the initiative to identify
and reach out to local young musicians and bands, coordinating interviews and live acoustic sessions which were then broadcast on our community radio station. This effort has enabled our senior youth media participants to hone their music journalism skills and prepare for university applications, while also fostering a sense of community by providing a platform for young musicians to showcase their talents. Through this regular engagement and increased confidence in connecting with musicians, two young participants were given the unique opportunity to conduct an exclusive interview with a globally renowned band. This experience was incredibly affirming, significantly boosting their confidence and wellbeing.
Staff Development
We have actively supported the development of our recently appointed Youth Work Assistant, a former participant of the shmuTRAIN employability program, and our Youth Support Worker, who is currently completing their PDA in Youth Work. This training has significantly enhanced youth work practices across all our services. Additionally, we provided training for a Trainee Music Tutor through matched funding from Creative Scotland's Youth Music Initiative. Over six months, the tutor assisted in delivering various youth music projects, including the Youth Rap Project. This project engaged 12 young people, helping them develop music technology skills, explore creative expression through rhyming language, and build confidence and social skills.
“(shmu) helps me talk with others in a comfortable environment and encourages me to leave my house. It helps me socialise in a way I couldn’t find before.”
Youth Media participant
Youth Media Case Study
Case study overview
Our Youth Media case study illuminates the profound impact of our CashBack NorthEast programme on Elena*. Initially labelled a troublemaker at school and grappling with anxiety and declining well-being, Elena's path took a significant turn with the transition to homeschooling. However, her life underwent an even more drastic shift following a brain haemorrhage. Her involvement in the CashBack NorthEast Youth Media sessions became a lifeline. Embraced by a community that celebrated her authenticity, Elena was empowered by tailored support and opportunities to explore her creative passions. Through creative workshops and nurturing relationships, Elena not only reclaimed her confidence but also discovered a profound sense of belonging and purpose. In this case study, Elena reflects on how the programme has not only enabled her to pursue her dreams but also provided a safe space where her uniqueness is celebrated.
Early in her secondary school career Elena was labelled a troublemaker in school, regularly missing classes and getting into trouble along with others in her social group. Over time, her occasional intentional absences from school developed into a wider reluctance and fear around attending school. Anxiety around social settings, peers and school set in, building over time to experiencing panic attacks and being unable to attend school at all. Elena feels her earlier poor behaviour was the focus of priority rather than the mental health and wellbeing issues that became the key reason for her absences from school.
A decision was reached for Elena to be home schooled and from early 2020 life got better for her, until at 16 years of age in October 2021 she suffered a spontaneous brain haemorrhage in the street. With her health in a critical condition, Elena was hospitalised for 8 months and was left with weakness to her left-hand side, a limp and having to walk with a leg brace and walking stick.
Having missed so much schooling, upon her return to better health, it was recommended that Elena return to mainstream schooling to support her to improve her academic outcomes, which by that stage were quite poor.
Returning to school presented Elena with many challenges, including difficulties developing peer relationships. Whilst she managed a part-time timetable, lack of confidence meant that she was reluctant to leave the house other than to attend school. On returning to school Elena found that people would be overly sensitive, patronising or even ignore her for fear of saying the wrong thing. Accompanied by her reduced mobility, this impacted hugely on her confidence.
morning she initially found it very tiring. Whilst she enjoyed the experience, she felt that she had to put on a front of being happy and confident. Staff chatted with her about shmu being a safe space where she was welcome to express how she was feeling without fear of judgement. Elena was supported in developing peer relationships within the group and she was open with other young people about her AVM experience. This allowed open, honest and non-judgemental friendships to develop.
A short while after starting at shmu, Elena’s confidence took a huge knock at school when some young pupils filmed her walking with a limp in the school corridors. This setback meant Elena once again became reluctant to leave the house. Staff at shmu reached out to Elena to encourage her to return to shmu and offered support in overcoming the setback.
When Elena started attending the CashBack NorthEastYouth Media project at shmu on a Saturday
*This is a pseudonym
Staff have accommodated Elena’s needs by designing sessions that reduced the need for moving around, and with a recent focus on building storytelling skills, Elena has had an opportunity to take part in workshops around journalism, scriptwriting, music creation and writing a radio play. These workshops have allowed her to tap into her creative abilities and develop core skills.
Elena is just about to start her sixth year at secondary school and will be attending a full-time timetable after the summer. Despite life's challenges, Elena finds solace and fulfilment in the camaraderie of her newfound friends, affirming that amidst adversity, resilience and acceptance can pave the path to personal growth and fulfilment.
“I can be my usual self around everyone at shmu, and that makes me feel all the more comfortable. It’s nice pursuing my career at shmu, especially when I’m surrounded by people who accept me for who I am. Being at shmu really
impacted me for the better. A Saturday without going feels too mundane and boring and I couldn’t feel any more lucky and grateful for meeting so many amazing people. I know it sounds strange but sometimes I’m so happy that what happened to me, happened when it did because if it hadn’t, I wouldn’t have been able to experience so many things or feel a sense of fulfilment as I do now. It’s still hard coping with what happened to me but the anticipation of waiting all week to see my friends and script some films make a possibly hard week all the easier to deal with. I finally get to do what I enjoy doing the most in life - planning and writing scripts. This time, though, I get to do it with people I know and not secluded away in my room at home. I never feel lonely at shmu, and I love how everyone there, especially the staff, put up with my weird antics, and wild personality at times.
Things in life don't come easy for me anymore but this does and that’s enough for me.”
“I can be my usual self around everyone at shmu, and that makes me feel all the more comfortable. It’s nice pursuing my career at shmu, especially when I’m surrounded by people who accept me for who I am.”
“Many thanks for your hard work helping our child in her dreams for the future”
Parent of Youth Media participant
Training Academy
Summary
Despite its challenges, our CashBack NorthEast Training Academy programme has boosted the confidence, communication skills, and overall happiness, of those who have taken part, as evidenced by feedback from teachers and participants. The high rate of progression on to college courses and work placements among participants underscores the programme's success in facilitating critical educational and career transitions. The programme’s ability to adapt to different challenges, such as relocating sessions or extending support to different pupil groups, highlights its flexibility and commitment to meeting pupils' needs. Despite challenges in recruitment and engagement, the persistence of the staff and their flexible approach were crucial in achieving positive outcomes, even for the harder-to-reach pupils.
Aberdeen City Delivery
In Year 1 of our CashBack NorthEast Training Academy, we delivered our programme in three schools in Aberdeen City. We completed our Summer Leavers 23 programme in Bucksburn Academy and commenced programmes in Lochside and St Machar academies.
We have received confirmation from Bucksburn Academy that, of the 10 young people who engaged with our Training Academy in the first quarter of the year, 9 have progressed on to college courses, and one has taken up a Work Experience placement, a considerable achievement considering the personal challenges the pupils faced.
Engaging with pupils from Lochside Academy was more challenging. Initially, we reconnected with the Year Head, who valued the impact of previous shmu programmes,
and who sought our support for a group of Winter Leavers at high risk of leaving school with a negative destination. Unfortunately, these pupils, being school refusers and non-attenders, were extremely difficult to engage, and the programme struggled to gain traction. Additionally, an increased offer from the local college for exceptional entrants reduced demand for our pilot programme. In response, we extended the programme to Summer Leavers at risk of not securing positive destination without coordinated support. We offered sessions at our new studio facilities within the Greyhope Community Hub in Torry, a convenient location for the pupils. Despite initial attendance from a small group of pupils, a number of challenges led to problems with consistent participation.
“Thank you so much for persevering with us. You have been so flexible and accommodating to our needs. It was just unfortunate that the pupils were extremely hard to reach.” – Year Head Lochside Academy
Our programme at St Machar Academy proved to be more successful. After a productive meeting with the Deputy Head, we initiated a Summer Leavers programme for a small group of identified pupils. We delivered the programme at our base in Woodside, Aberdeen, conveniently located for the students. Although six students were initially referred, only three attended regularly. Of the three regular attendees, two were highly engaged, while the third was less committed. However, the acceptance of the engaged students into college courses motivated the third pupil to reengage and has now resulted in their application to college for a course.
Aberdeenshire Delivery
Over the past year, we piloted our Training Academy programme in two Aberdeenshire secondary schools: Kemnay and Portlethen Academies. These schools were chosen due to our strong existing relationships from delivering the Foundation Apprenticeship in Creative and Digital Media, as well as their proximity to our main building and the city.
This was our first time delivering the programme in these schools and in the local authority area, we began with small groups. At Kemnay Academy, we initially saw good engagement, but several pupils left to pursue an alternative college opportunity. The remaining students participated sporadically but managed to create some small film-based mini projects. Our Portlethen Academy programme was more successful, with a small but dedicated cohort of three students. All attended every session, engaged well, and completed their Personal Development Award – Practical Abilities.
In addition to our two courses in school, we also supported 2 individual pupils from Aberdeenshire on a 1:1 basis. We supported ‘Nico’, whose story is featured in our Training Academy case study and also supported ‘Alan’. Alan was a pupil with multiple barriers, including a diagnosis of mild cerebral palsy. Alan has a real interest in media and due to his disabilities
required some additional support to transition on from school. He attended shmu weekly for 1:1 sessions with our Employability Support Worker and our Film tutor, developing both his media skills and employability skills while exploring his options for the future. He did consider staying on school to 6th year with the intention of doing our FA Creative and Digital Media, however he decided to apply to Aberdeen Academy of Performing Arts to pursue his passion for acting. He is currently on a break from shmu while completing his end of year exams and assessments but plans to return in summer to engage with our support before progressing on to AAPA.
“The (Training Academy) sessions, have undoubtedly increased their confidence, communication skills and their overall happiness in the school. The pupils involved have really enjoyed the experience, so much so that on the one week where the tutors could not make it, they continued to meet up as a group, working on the task at hand without any real support from the school.”
Teacher, Portlethen Academy
“I can’t thank your service enough. (Nico) even said if he has to stop attending sessions, he is not in a dark place anymore and he is happy for someone who is in need to take his place.”
Training Academy Case Study
Case study overview
Our Training Academy case study presents Nico’s* journey, which demonstrates the transformative impact of personalised support and engagement opportunities offered through our CashBack NorthEast programme. Nico was a ‘Winter Leaver’ who struggled with multiple barriers and issues including poor attendance at school, involvement with the police and substance abuse. While normally delivered in a group-based format, we developed and delivered a 1:1 tailored support package for Nico, incorporating dedicated music sessions and personal development sessions with complementary employability support.
Nico was referred to shmu from Skills Development Scotland’s (SDS) ‘in-school’ careers adviser from Mackie Academy. She attended a multi-agency meeting regarding his support and came to us looking for options for support.
Towards the end of the 2022-23 academic year Nico was not permitted to attend classes at school due to various incidents; although he did engage with online learning and achieved several national qualifications. Nico was designated as a Winter Leaver as he did not turn 16 until January 2024, so opted to go to college to study music as an exceptional entrant in August 2023. However, he struggled to fit in at college course, and the multi-agency meeting was arranged to look at activities that he could engage with until his statutory leaving date (December 2023) and to look beyond this to consider options available to him after he had left school.
Nico had substance abuse issues and it was suspected that he was possibly moving into being involved in the supply of drugs. Nico had already had a few ‘run ins’ with local police although no formal charges had been made. In our conversations with both SDS and Mackie Academy staff it was felt that it was unlikely that Nico would engage with our services and that this was being considered as a final chance to direct him onto a more positive path.
*This is a pseudonym
As a Winter Leaver, Nico was referred to our Training Academy programme. Due to his multiple barriers and issues, it was agreed that a 1:1 programme would suit him better, rather than the regular group-based format of the programme. Nico came to shmu for a visit with his mum and despite fears of non-engagement he was interested, engaged and talkative when he visited and was very keen on the idea of engaging in some music sessions.
Nico agreed to a structured plan which included attending shmu twice a week, with one session dedicated to music and the other focussing on personal development. Nico’s mum has reported that he “talks very fondly of the staff at shmu saying how much they support and understand him, and how he feels really valued.”
Nico is keen to get a job so that he can start earning a wage. To support him realise this ambition, we have supporting him to write his CV and to start applying for jobs. This was challenging due to still being under 16, however we worked with Nico, encouraging him to not get disheartened and to be patient.
Nico’s attendance has been excellent, not missing any sessions without informing us and always having valid reasons on the rare occasions he has missed sessions. He has been engaged well and is extremely motivated.
In Nico’s words this is due to “be(ing) able to work with such talented people in a welcoming environment”
Engaging with shmu has been a real turning point for Nico and his family, his mum told us: “I have seen a real turn around in his behaviour, and he has integrated back into our family unit; he’s eating dinner with us every night instead of in his room; he’s disassociated himself from a negative peer group entirely; and there’s been no substance misuse. He’s even been wanting to go for runs with his dad and go to the cinema with us.”
Nico formally left school and the CashBack NorthEast Training Academy programme in December 2023 and transitioned to our Discover employability programme, which offers one-on-one support for those at Stage 1 of the employability pipeline. He re-engaged with us enthusiastically in January 2024 and by February, Nico had joined our Stage 3 Succeed Employability programme, conveniently delivered in Stonehaven, close to his home. Although Nico experienced some challenges transitioning from a single weekly one-onone session to a group programme held four times per week and had to cope with the inconvenience of moving to a new home, he successfully completed the course and earned his employability award. His participation in both programmes gave him the opportunity to reflect on his future goals and what he needed to achieve them. As a result, Nico made the difficult, but mature decision to return to school to complete his qualifications. He will be attending a new school in a different area, where he plans to pursue Higher Music, National 5 Physics, and improve his grades in National 5 Maths and English. He also plans to attend a criminology course at NESCOL in the next academic year.
“I love it and enjoy it very much…..I love creating beats, writing songs and recording with the added bonus of learning how to improve the process in which I hope to perfect. I am also very grateful for all you have taught me about CVs, job applications, and interview techniques. In general, brilliant place and people.”
Nico
ENGAGE
Summary
Recognising the shift towards community-based interventions in youth sentencing, our Engage targets justice-experienced young people, addressing mental health issues, substance abuse, and risk-taking behaviour.
During the first year of CashBack NorthEast, two Engage courses were successfully delivered, with a third underway.
Participants engaged in film, TV, and radio productions, showcasing their talents and exploring topics such as 'Youth Spaces' to combat antisocial behaviour.
Strategic partnerships have been strengthened with third-sector services in HMP Grampian, focusing on supporting individuals transitioning from prison into the community. Additionally, discussions with Community Justice Scotland regarding partnership opportunities for their Voluntary Throughcare Grant Fund signal potential collaboration across the wider community justice sector.
Prevention
Despite the achievements of our CashBack Phase 5 funded Media Access Project (MAP) at HMP Grampian, we encountered notable obstacles stemming from a limited number of young participants within the establishment. Given this circumstance and recognising the evolving landscape of youth sentencing, which emphasizes
community-based interventions and diversion from prosecution, our Phase 6 program, Engage, has transitioned to community settings. This revised approach targets justice-involved young people, aiming to disrupt the cycle of offending by addressing underlying challenges such as mental health issues and substance abuse. Additionally, we extend support to young people at risk of involvement in the justice system due to risk taking behaviour and/or challenging life circumstances.
Programme delivery
During the first year of CashBack NorthEast, we successfully delivered two comprehensive Engage courses and commenced a third.
In the first course participants took part in film and TV production, culminating in the creation of a short film entitled 'Welcome to Torry.' This project showcased their newfound skills through insightful interviews with local residents, accompanied by an original soundtrack they produced. They also showcased their talents through a live radio broadcast, discussing topics close to their hearts while showcasing their self-produced jingles.
The second course commenced with six weeks of radio sessions culminating in a live radio broadcast on our community radio station just before Christmas. Building
on this success, they transitioned to film and TV sessions in January, where they showcased their creativity and teamwork by producing three engaging short films.
Throughout the skills sessions, the group actively participated in team-building exercises, honed personal skills, and pursued their Personal Development Awards. Recognising the importance of safe spaces for young adults, they chose to focus their project on researching 'Youth Spaces' for their Personal Development Award. The group felt that the lack of safe and supportive youth spaces could be a reason young people are more likely to engage with antisocial behaviour. Their research included an examination of what constitutes antisocial behaviour, its primary impact, and the efficacy of existing approaches by authorities and communities to address it. Eager to utilise shmu's community media platforms, the group aim to share their findings and raise awareness of what is available and the impact these centres are having on reducing antisocial behaviour. As part of this discussion, the group expressed their gratitude for the positive impact shmu has had on their lives, citing its role in steering them away from risktaking behaviour.
Following the completion of their course in February 2024, the group marked their achievements with a celebration event. Impressively, one participant returned to shmu to undertake a placement, driven by their aspiration of pursuing a career in media. Meanwhile, other participants demonstrated their ongoing commitment by volunteering with our Community TV team, which has included capturing footage and conducting interviews at events within our target communities.
In March 2024, our third Engage course of the year commenced, and the participants selected the project entitled 'How autism affects us.' This topic resonated deeply with the group as each member has personal experience with autism. They believe that exploring this theme will allow them to effectively raise awareness of their condition in an accessible and impactful manner.
Strategic Partnerships
We have strengthened our collaboration with third-sector services operating within HMP Grampian, establishing a core group dedicated to providing support and meaningful activities for individuals transitioning from prison into the community. The group will convene bi-monthly to explore joint working initiatives and potential referrals, fostering a collaborative approach to support provision.
Additionally, we've been approached by Community Justice Scotland to explore partnership opportunities for their new Voluntary Throughcare Grant Fund. This presents an exciting prospect for further collaboration and support within the community justice sector. We're scheduled to participate in a round table discussion in mid-April alongside other key local providers, with a focus on shaping the vision and structure of a new Grampian Voluntary Throughcare Partnership. This platform offers a welcome opportunity to co-design an effective support network for individuals transitioning from prison to the community.
“It was nice as there is not much stuff for young people to do, and this was a good place.”
Engage participant
“
I found the Engage course was a great way for me to learn more about how everything works behind the scenes. I gained more confidence in talking in front of people and I had a laugh meeting new people. I am looking forward to staying involved with shmu and learning more about editing videos and radioI really enjoyed it.”
Megan
Engage Case Study
Case study overview
Our Engage case study demonstrates the power of perseverance and hope in the face of consistent setbacks. Unable to secure a job after completing her college course, Megan* was overwhelmed with feelings of anxiety and hopelessness, which were exacerbated by the pandemic. Joining the CashBack NorthEast Engage course, Megan gained confidence and technical skills in radio and film production. Despite initial reservations, Megan flourished behind the scenes and expressed interest in further training with shmu. Staff observed her growing confidence and interaction with others, while Megan's mother noted a positive change. Megan herself appreciated the course for boosting her confidence and sparking her interest in media, giving her direction and hope for the future.
We first met Megan when she was referred by her ABZ Works Employability Worker to take part in our Engage course. Megan was quiet and lacked confidence, having been significantly impacted by the covid pandemic.
When the pandemic hit, Megan was 19, and had just finished a college course. Her inability to secure a job after college impacted on her confidence and she became disheartened. When the world went into lockdown, this made things harder for Megan and despite her still looking for work, the rejection and lack of replies took its toll and her confidence hit rock bottom. Megan would often tell her mum and boyfriend she felt like a failure, and that she was struggling with anxiety.
As things opened back up, Megan was keen to improve her situation, engaging with an employability worker from ABZ Works, however after nearly 2 years of engagement, her confidence was still extremely low, and Megan still felt a lack of motivation and clarity of direction.
Megan is a creative individual and has an interest in media so she felt the twelve-week Engage course, which included a taster in Radio, Film and Music would be a good way to learn new technical skills as well as improving her core skills and improving her mental health and wellbeing. Megan was also still keen to get into employment so thought this course would be good for her to build her transferable skills while also accessing employability support through shmu.
Megan was part of a group of six who signed up for the course and was one of the most consistent participants during the twelve-week programme. Megan was quite shy at the start but as the weeks went on, her confidence grew. As the group progressed, other participants left the course and at times there was only Megan and one
*This is a pseudonym
other in attendance. We thought this may knock Megan’s confidence but both her and the other participant worked well together and formed a positive relationship.
When it came to the radio training block, Megan was apprehensive about taking part and could barely speak in the first couple of sessions, but by the last session she confidently took part in a radio show. Megan enjoyed being able to use the desk and was more confident in the technical aspect than speaking into the microphone.
Megan’s confidence flourished during the location shoot of the film element of the course as the filming took place in a community she was familiar with. Again, Megan was more confident in being behind the scenes than in front of the camera but did engage well in the activity.
During the course, Megan also spent some time with our Employability Support Worker, updating her CV and looking at her job prospects which made her feel more confident about applying for work.
During the twelve weeks of the Engage course, staff observed Megan’s confidence slowly grow. Although still quite quiet in group discussions, there was noticeable improvement in her overall confidence, and she was keen to learn. Megan had clearly enjoyed her experience at shmu and is looking to continue her involvement by joining the photography course, signing up for radio training and continuing to engage with our employability support team. Megan is feeling ready for work and hopes to find employment soon.
“I think the course has been great for Megan to build her confidence, although she still has some way to go, it is nice to see her with more confidence and not feeling as anxious” Megan's Mum
Organisational Update
Over the first year of the CashBack NorthEast programme our organisation has significantly bolstered its capacity through strategic staff appointments and has led impactful campaigns focused on mental health and challenging poverty. Additionally, new dedicated spaces have been developed to support and expand service delivery, ensuring wider community engagement and accessibility across our programme.
Strengthening Our Staff Team
At the end of July 2023, we appointed a Community Development Manager, a new post in the organisation; this has allowed for a renewed strategic focus on our community development activity. This includes engagement with key public services in Aberdeen, mainly via Community Planning Aberdeen, to improve community involvement in the process. We are leading on a Community Planning Aberdeen project to ensure the work and assets of communities are celebrated and recognised by public services in the city, as well as influencing the re-development of the Anti-Poverty Outcome Improvement Group within Community Planning.
We were also able to strengthen our music staff team in July 2023, by recruiting a Youth Music Trainee to support delivery of youth music focused activities. This post, match funding by Creative Scotland’s Youth Music Initiative, has enabled us to provide more bespoke music sessions to our current CashBack NorthEast participants whilst also creating
a music focused outreach project to offer taster music sessions across the regeneration areas of the city.
As a result of matched income from the Sean Connery Foundation we have also recruited four new members of staff to our Film and TV team, expanding our capacity and ability to work with young people and adults across the organisation. A new Film & TV Support Worker role has been key to enhancing our Film and TV offer to young people taking part in our CashBack NorthEast funded activities.
In December 2023, we recruited a new Cultural Services Manager to support the development of our vision to ensure that our work embeds culture and creativity across our services for young people – including our CashBack NorthEast programme. The postholder also supported an exciting TV initiative run by Screen Skills, who are working in partnership with First Break, the production company who is producing the second season of Granite Harbour – a high-end BBC production set in Aberdeen. We supported the recruitment of interested community members to this project, which included several young people who have joined our film activities at shmu.
Campaign Work
We made a commitment during Phase 5 of the CashBack programme to focus on the mental health & wellbeing of all who engage with our services after witnessing the significant impact of the post-pandemic recovery period and cost-ofliving crisis.
In May 2023, we coordinated a partnership campaign for Mental Health Awareness Week; working with key mental health organisations in Aberdeen, 3rd sector and statutory, to create a powerful, thought provoking and informative media campaign. We created a series of talking-head films, sharing the lived experience voices of community members, as well as celebrating the work of local organisations. We hosted a radio take-over day inviting lots of organisations to shmu to promote the services they offer to support people’s mental health. We also put on our own activities for young people, including a workshop by Aberdeen Science Centre on the Science of Mental Health.
In addition to our Mental Health & Wellbeing Campaign, the organisation has continued to take a lead role in supporting and coordinating meaningful campaigns which highlight the concerns of our service users and volunteers, including those taking part in our CashBack NorthEast programme.
shmu's Communication Officer has been involved in a short-life working group, coordinated by The Poverty Alliance to work with the third sector to identify the most pressing priorities around tackling poverty, against the backdrop of the current cost-of-living crisis. We have also collaborated on this year's Challenge Poverty Week campaign with several key third sector organisations in the city, including CFine, Abernecessities and Aberdeen Cyrenians to create another impactful campaign.
We were delighted to win the Celebrate Aberdeen Award for ‘Best Campaign’ for our work around last year's Challenge Poverty Week campaign. Volunteers and organisations were hailed for their contribution to Aberdeen and the north-east at the special event at the Chester Hotel on 28th October,
with 24 finalists shortlisted, and shmu staff and volunteers in attendance to enjoy the celebrations and collect our award.
New Spaces
As our programmes continue to expand, the pressure on space at our recently redeveloped HQ in Woodside has increased. As a result, we have been working with partners to develop and create additional appropriate new spaces that we can operate our services from.
This includes Greyhope Primary School and Community Hub, in which we have a dedicated TV/Music Recording studio, which was opened to the public in November 2023. The space is modelled on our studio in our base in Woodside and provides the opportunity to develop a range of services in the south of the city as it is in Torry, another of the city’s priority areas. This will be especially beneficial for our CashBack NorthEast programme as Torry is two bus rides away from our base in Woodside which creates a barrier for younger participants. We are in the process of consulting with young people in the area about the services they would like to see operating in the space, which is being led by young Youth Media participants from the Torry area.
We are also working with Belmont Community Cinema Ltd, as a strategic partner, to secure the funds necessary to refurbish and redevelop the former Belmont Cinema (Aberdeen’s only independent cinema). The vison is for shmu to manage the top floor of the city centre cinema which will be transformed into an education and filmmaking centre for the region. The aim is for the cinema to reopen in 2025, with some of our CashBack NorthEast programme being delivered from the venue when it opens.
“My confidence has increased a lot because I got more confidence to perform live. It feels weird to be live on radio, but now that I have done it I feel I have finally done it. My confidence has definitely increased.”
Youth Media participant
Communications Report
Overview
Since our Communications Officer joined in April 2022, we've seen a remarkable improvement in our social media analytics and press engagement.
Over the course of the first year of our CashBack NorthEast programme, our social media presence has expanded considerably, reaching a total of 928,330 users on Facebook and Instagram. Our posts garnered 55,225 video views and 1,255,963 impressions, attracting 840 new followers across both platforms. This impressive growth is attributed to our consistent promotion of projects on social media and proactive engagement with the press. Despite the transition of Twitter to X, we maintained strong engagement with 74,449 impressions, highlighting increased interaction with shmu and our CashBack NorthEast programme.
Moving forward, we are committed to sustaining this momentum and advancing our mission of transforming individuals and communities through media. Our inaugural year of our CashBack NorthEast program marked significant growth and engagement, fuelled by strategic communication efforts and active volunteer participation in key campaigns and projects.
Press Coverage
This year, our Communications Officer worked closely with the local press to highlight key initiatives.
Sean Connery Foundation: Promoting the matched funding received from the Sean Connery Foundation, which alongside CashBack NorthEast supports young people from disadvantaged backgrounds in learning film skills and education. This resulted in a four-page feature in "Your Weekend."
Read the article. https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/ lifestyle/5775940/sir-sean-connery-shmu-aberdeen/
KL, a CashBack NorthEast Youth Media participant, received a video from Humza Yousaf as the first person in Aberdeen to receive the 200-hour Saltire Award for volunteering.
Read more https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/ news/aberdeen-aberdeenshire/5802910/humza-yousafaberdeen-teen/
KL also received a motion in parliament proposed by Jackie Dunbar MSP.
Read the motion. https://www.parliament.scot/chamberand-committees/votes-and-motions/S6M-09211
A joint CashBack NorthEast and YMI funded initiative, this Hip Hop project gained momentum with coverage in The Press and Journal, resulting in significant social media interaction.
Read the article. https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/ entertainment/music/6358862/acclaimed-rapper-set-toteach-rap-and-hip-hop-to-aberdeen-youngsters/
The End of Project Celebration for this project reached over 1,200 accounts with 133 engagements.
“It felt great to see my name up on the big screen! My family is really proud of me.”
Youth Media Participant
Campaigns
Campaigns have become integral to how shmu engages with our target communities, addressing the challenges they face. We have spearheaded initiatives for Mental Health Awareness Week and Challenge Poverty Week, which not only highlight the need for action in Aberdeen but also place the lived experiences of our community members at the forefront.
Challenge Poverty Week (October 2023)
This campaign explored community experiences during the cost-of-living crisis.
We shared a film made with CashBack NorthEast participants discussing their experiences and hopes for the future, screened to third-sector organisations, Aberdeen City Council leaders and MSP’s.
Social media reach increased by 352.6% and content interaction by 228.2%.
We also secured STV coverage across Scotland, highlighting the lived experiences of our community members.
Mental Health Awareness Week (15th–21st May 2023)
We collaborated with over 40 organisations, from NHS Grampian to charities and community groups.
Our social media reach improved by 153%, and content interaction increased by 256.8%.
CashBack NorthEast Engage and Youth Media participants contributed ‘talking head’ films, collectively receiving 2,332 views on Facebook and over 1,000 views on Instagram, with an overall reach of 5,000.
CashBack NorthEast Activities
Summer One Day Challenges (2023) - Reached 2,364 accounts on Facebook and Instagram, receiving 2,928 impressions.
Youth Media Live Lounges where Youth Media broadcast live local artists are popular with one post reaching783 accounts, receiving 1,014 impressions.
Celebrate Aberdeen Parade that champions the third sector in Aberdeen and involved our Youth MediaGenerated over 91 reactions, comments, and shares on Facebook.
shmu Summer BBQ that celebrated the achievements of our volunteers at shmu - Reached 1.4K accounts with 55 reactions, comments, and shares.
Youth Media Interview with rock band Wheatus - Post performed 2.4x higher than others within 21 days, with 155 minutes watched.
Connecting Through Creativity Project - Celebrated artistic endeavours with over 800 impressions.
National Cowboy Day Youth Media Show - Reached 922 accounts and had 985 impressions.
Summer Film School - received a 15.1% increase in reach and engagement.
Autumn Song in a Day Challenge - Reached 1,000 accounts on both Facebook and Instagram.
Youth Filmmakers - Reached over 1,100 accounts on Facebook.
Christmas trip to Cineworld reached over 1,000 accounts with 70 engagements.
Spotlight on Engage Course Participants - Posts reached over 1,000 accounts with 66 engagements.
Speak Out Radio Show - Reached 752 accounts with 95 engagements.
Social Media Highlight Engagement with Riverbank Primary School pupils through our Youth Media project generated 13,508 impressions on Facebook. To see this post https://www.facebook.com/ photo/?fbid=810215321143264&set=a.337075371790597
“It's heartwarming to see how the Youth Media unit at Shmu is nurturing such remarkable creative talents. The dedication and effort that the team invests in guiding young participants like A is genuinely commendable.”
Youth Media Parent
Financial Report - Year 1
The budget for our programme was spent in line with the projected budget as outlined in our grant agreement, with no over or underspends during the first year of the CashBack NorthEast programme.
Training Academy - Operational Staff Costs
Youth Media - Operational Staff Costs
Engage - Operational Staff Costs
Audio/IT Technician (across all programmes)
Recruitment costs
Staffing Project delivery costs sub-total
Training Academy - Running Costs & Expenses
Youth Media - Running Costs & Expenses
Engage - Running Costs & Expenses
Non-Staffing Project delivery costs sub-total
Contribution towards equipment across all programmes
Capital expenditure sub-total
Management and Marketing Fee
Management and Marketing sub-total
Total Expenditure
Local Authority Area Spend and Activity
Most of our CashBack NorthEast programme take place in Aberdeen City, however there are a number of beneficiaries that live in Aberdeenshire.
• Youth Media focusses on supporting young people in the regeneration areas of Aberdeen City
• Training Academy focusses on supporting Senior Phase pupils in Aberdeen schools, but also provides some one-to-one support to young people in both local authorities.
• Engage supports young people in the community who are justice experienced and may be resident in Aberdeen or Aberdeenshire.
Analysis of spend across both local authorities
The Scottish Government’s Key Policy Areas
In September 2021 the Scottish Government published a Programme for Government which, alongside the Bute House Agreement, set out their plans for the full parliamentary term. The ambition and intentions set out remain unchanged, focussing on those immediate priorities which they believe should be driven forward with urgency in the face of current challenges. CashBack is designed to support the achievement of National Outcomes as part of Scotland’s National Performance Framework, and as such CashBack NorthEast contributes to four key Scottish Government policy areas:
Scotland's 2018-2032 Climate Change Plan
As an organisation, we actively strive to make conscious and considered decisions around our environmental actions and impact, both internally and across our programmes. We are committed to expanding our climate action approach and are engaging Adaptation Scotland and NESCAN to gain support and advice on how we can play our part in a just transition to net zero.
Strategically, we are developing a comprehensive net zero plan for our organisation. Our redeveloped HQ has been designed energy efficiently, utilising solar panels and incorporating energy efficient heating. We have also recently invested in a wind farm set up as a cooperative, which will significantly reduce our carbon footprint.
From an operational perspective, positive climate action is a core theme across all our projects and platforms. The Climate Emergency was one of the topics our young people identified as an area they feel passionately about as part of the development of our Youth Social Action activities; young people involved in our CashBack NorthEast programme are encouraged to explore this theme, gaining a personal understanding, and sharing their knowledge through our community media platforms.
Building on this approach, we will use our social media platforms and our community websites to lead on climate action campaigns, reaching often hard to reach audiences to raise awareness, start community-based discussions and encourage positive and collective action across our communities.
Application of the Fair Work Framework
shmu is dedicated to maintaining its fair working practices and is committed to the Fair Work First approach.
Effective Voice
We strive to provide a safe environment for dialogue between staff and management, where challenges are dealt with constructively, and where employees views are sought out, listened to, and acted upon. Regular staff team and project team meetings take place to allow feedback, ideas and issues to flow through the organisation. We host bi-annual Development Days where both the staff team and Trustees come together to discuss the future of the organisation, encouraging reflection on achievements while considering development opportunities, at both operational and strategic levels.
We have a ‘rolling’ 5-year Strategic Plan and an established framework to allow all stakeholders to contribute, including volunteers, trainees, staff and trustees. This includes annual operational ‘visioning sessions’ for our core areas of work, where stakeholders reflect on progress over the previous year and plan for the future.
Opportunity
We strive to create a more inclusive and diverse workplace; we recruit through job incentives schemes where appropriate and offer work placement and volunteering opportunities. We have built constructive working relationships with local colleges and universities are exploring the creation of a regional Workforce Development programme.
We are active in tackling the gender pay gap and strive for diversity and inclusion across our staff team. We support job sharing, and working remotely; offer parttime opportunities, compressed hours, flexitime, and annualised hours.
Security
We do not utilise zero-hour contracts; operating with contracted full and part-time members of staff, and a bank of freelance tutors who are paid at industry rates. As an accredited Real Living Wage employer, all our staff are paid at or above the real living wage. We operate on an
incremental salary plan, with additional incremental leave for each staff employee who stay with the organisation longer-term. We have a sick pay policy and encourage flexible working and support staff to maintain a healthy work/life balance.
We implemented a Stakeholder Pension Scheme ahead of the statutory deadline and have increased the employer contribution regularly. Our Trustees are keen to continue to increase the employer contribution ahead of statutory deadlines, aiming to become a Living Pension Employer in the near future.
Fulfilment
We actively encourage staff to engage in CPD, with learning and development integrated in our organisation's strategic planning. Staff and Managers jointly identify development needs and priorities through our supervision and appraisal framework, ensuring both individual and organisational needs are met.
Respect
We are working towards gaining Healthy Working Lives certification; embedding staff wellbeing support and practices across the organisation linked to a comprehensive Mental Health & Wellbeing Strategy.
Increased awareness of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC)
Although we have the policies, processes, and staff team in place to fully support the rights of young people who engage with our services, the full Children’s Rights and Wellbeing Impact Assessment (CRWIA) that we carried out linked to our Phase 5 CashBack programme enabled our organisation to undertake a thorough and robust review and put in place any improvements that were required.
Our organisation has been a leading youth work provider for over 20 years, with an experienced staff team who are trained to work with the young people and cognisant of
child welfare and child protection issues. The organisation has a dedicated Child Protection Officer who oversees the UNCRC policy and utilises our CRWIA assessment to inform all aspects of the programme.
Our CWRIA sets out to assess the extent to which the activities involved in our CashBack NorthEast programme align with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and how they will promote the wellbeing of children and young people. The assessment seeks to ensure that the programmes within this wider project are inclusive, safeguard children’s rights and contribute positively to their physical, emotional and educational development. Our CWRIA can be accessed on our website https://www.shmu.org.uk/policies-CRWIA. You will also find a link on our site to The Scottish Government 20-minute UNCRC training tool referred to in our updated CRWIA and undertaken by all project staff.
Our approach in developing and utilising the policy is mandatory for all staff members and we are confident that our robust and clear process allows us to continuously cross-reference our practice to ensure that the wellbeing and rights of the child are both protected and enhanced.
Best Start, Bright Futures: The Scottish Government’s Tackling Child Poverty Delivery Plan, 2022-26
The Scottish Government’s Tackling Child Poverty Delivery Plan sets out the bold and ambitious actions that will be taken with partners across Scotland to provide the support families need to ensure sustained reductions in child poverty. Addressing and preventing poverty in our local communities is at the heart of shmu’s core outcomes and ethos. We understand the contribution all parts of society must make to deliver the change needed for children and families, and where our place is in that change as a leading community organisation serving some of the most deprived areas of Aberdeen.
Part A: Providing the opportunities and integrated support parents need to enter, sustain and progress in work Employability is one of our key organisational pillars. Our employability programmes are embedded within the No One Left Behind Framework in both Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire. Our CashBack NorthEast Training Academy project is dedicated to offer training and employability assistance to young people who face the risk of not attaining positive post-school destination. By doing so, we aim to significantly diminish the likelihood of these individuals falling into poverty and perpetuating the cycle for their families. Notably, many of our justice experienced young people who take part in our Engage courses are parents, and they can access our employability services as part of their engagement with the project.
Part B: Maximising the support available for families to live dignified lives and meet their basic needs
All our projects at shmu have wrap around high-quality support, offering individuals and families the right support at the right time. Our support is person-centred, focusing on the needs of that individual and supporting them to address and overcome the challenges they face. For many of our young people with experience in the justice system,
addressing crucial issues like housing, benefits, and financial concerns such as utility bills and the overall cost-of-living is paramount. We provide practical and emotional support with these issues, maximising the support available for individuals and families to live dignified lives and have their basic needs met.
Part C: Supporting the next generation to thrive
Our youth services are founded on the fundamental principle of fostering opportunities and offering support that facilitates the learning, growth, and acquisition of new skills among those who take part. This empowerment equips them with the necessary tools to flourish. Through initiatives like our Training Academy and Youth Media projects, we aid young people during pivotal transitional phases in their academic journey, fostering improved lifelong prospects and averting the potential cycle of poverty for future generations. Our Engage program specifically targets young people with experience in the justice system, aiming to disrupt patterns of offending and risk-taking behaviour. By doing so, we enable them to chart a different trajectory for themselves and their families.
“I now know someone else from our school to say hi to”
Training Academy participant
Priorities for Year 2
Youth Media
During the second year of our CashBack NorthEast programme, we will continue the roll out and integration of Dynamic Youth Awards into our weekly Youth Media programme to enhance academic confidence and achievement among the young people who take part.
Our project will be focusing on planning activities to support the transition from P7 to S1 and designing interactive and engaging Easter and Summer holiday programmes. We are also expanding our programme to include a series of taster activities across our target communities to aid recruitment and strengthen partnerships, which will increase the reach and impact of our programme.
Over the summer, as several senior members of our regular group progress into further/higher education and work, we will support them in this transition while providing opportunities to continue their engagement, including developing leadership and mentoring roles within the organisation. We will also focus on welcoming the new participants who have recently joined the programme having transitioned from Primary to Secondary school.
Training Academy
In Year 2 of our Training Academy programme, we will be focussing on building on the excellent relationship built with our local secondary school, St Machar Academy, with plans to recruit a new group for the course in the next academic year. In addition, we will also be targeting Lochside and Northfield academies, the other priority schools in Aberdeen City, with taster sessions planned before the summer break to prepare pupils for the course commencing in August 2024.
In Aberdeenshire, we are shifting our focus to Peterhead. We already have a strong relationship with Peterhead Academy through our Foundation Apprenticeship delivery and have started working with a Community Learning & Development youth group in the area. As we explore expanding our Training Academy offer to Peterhead Academy, we will aim to use the CLD space as a venue, as we recognise that engaging pupils outside the school environment can significantly benefit their successful transition from school.
Engage
We plan to incorporate Community TV filming opportunities into our Engage course in Year 2 of our programme, involving participants in real-life community projects to foster their interest in community engagement. This should enhance their sense of community and their willingness to continue volunteering with shmu on community-focused projects.
We are considering running a follow-on course for Engage participants who are not yet ready to move to the next stage of the employability pipeline. This will include encouraging participation in our volunteering opportunities to support continued engagement and positive progression outcomes.
Another focus in coming months will be to further develop our community justice links to increase referrals from relevant justice experienced young people. This will include conducting regular presentations to Justice Social Work (including prison based social workers), Unpaid Work Teams and Youth Social Work.
“I can confidently say that she thoroughly enjoys her time at Shmu and is fully engaged in the creative process. We are excited to continue supporting her artistic journey.”
Youth Media Parent
