THE MAGAZINE OF YOUTH SCOTLAND’S NETWORK
magnet Spring 2012
IN THIS ISSUE: News, Training and Resources Building the future
Amazing Things 3
Our active clubs
Exciting plans for Youth Scotland
New publication launches
Towards a Games Legacy
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THE MAGAZINE OF YOUTH SCOTLAND’S NETWORK
CONTENTS
Youth Scotland is the network of youth clubs and groups in Scotland. It is the largest non-uniformed youth organisation in Scotland and delivers quality youth work programmes, information, resources, training and support to community based youth work across Scotland. For more information, please visit www.youthscotland.org.uk
WELCOME Welcome to the Spring edition of Magnet. As the sector continues to face both challenges and opportunities, there has never been a better time to celebrate the amazing things young people are doing across the country. This edition of Magnet brings stories of young people developing their entrepreneurial skills and leading others, whether it be through setting up bike clubs in their own communities, hosting guided walks for the public or teaching dance sessions to their peers. As a network we continue to build new partnerships with dynamic, like-minded organisations to ensure that young people are given the best possible options. Youth Scotland has been fortunate over the past few decades to have built solid foundations, ensuring that we have the means to continue to provide opportunities for young people across the country. Recently we have been delighted to welcome new staff and board members and we remain committed to ensuring that we grow and develop as an organisation. Have a look at the page opposite for more about our plans for the future. Young people can succeed, and young people can flourish. It may be a period of uncertainty, but we must be adaptable, flexible and rise to the challenge. Carol Downie Chief Executive, Youth Scotland
NEWS BIKE CLUB GAMES LEGACY GIRLS ON THE MOVE NETWORK AWARDS TRAINING NETWORK NEWS FUNDING
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Stay Connected Keep up to date with the latest from Youth Scotland, including training dates, resources, funding deadlines and news. Website – Information about projects, training and funding at www.youthscotland.org.uk E-bulletin – Sign up at www.youthscotland.org.uk/E-News Twitter – Follow us @YouthScotland And don’t forget, you can still pick up the phone! Call us on 0131 554 2561
COVER PHOTO: NICOLA BALD
Building the future At Youth Scotland we believe that by investing in community based youth work, we invest in young people’s futures. Youth Scotland’s HQ building is now at full capacity and having secured a £100,000 investment from the Robertson Trust, our building development plans are one step closer to becoming a reality.
The past Youth Scotland has been built on solid foundations. Back in 1946, a capital grant of £2,000 from the then Scottish Office allowed Youth Scotland to purchase a building in Edinburgh’s West End. The building acted as the organisation’s original headquarters, as well as a hostel for young women flocking to the city to find jobs after the Second World War. In 1979, Youth Scotland rented out the West End building and purchased its current premises at Balfour House. This shrewd financial decision was made under the guidance of Chair Alan Blacklaws, who sadly passed away last year. His financial acumen ensured the safeguarding of the organisation’s resources and has paved the way for a secure financial future. With the investment of the proceeds from the sale of the West End building in 1999, Youth Scotland has consolidated its financial stability.
The plans Now Youth Scotland plans to dramatically develop its Balfour House headquarters in Edinburgh. The project management group has been working with architects and property experts to draw up a specification to create a modern, accessible base for community based youth work. As well as increased office space to accommodate an expanding portfolio of projects, the new hub will incorporate a meeting and training suite, enabling Youth Scotland to continue to develop its projects and facilitate essential partnerships.
New Board Members This year Youth Scotland welcomes three new members to our Board of Directors; Mitan Patel, Mark McGeachie and Co-opted Director Alastair Colquhoun. Bringing an invaluable range of skills and experience to the Board, the new members look forward to working with the existing Directors in supporting the work of Youth Scotland over the coming year. There have also been a number of staff changes in the Youth Scotland network recently. Find out more about our new staff throughout this issue, and see the back page of Magnet for staff contact details.
Congratulations to Award winners
The future The £100,000 awarded from the Robertson Trust’s 50th Anniversary Awards represents significant support for this development. Youth Scotland is now seeking additional funds to ensure the project can go ahead. With a secure asset base, dedicated staff team and a modernised headquarters Youth Scotland is committed to expanding our reach and enabling more young people to succeed.
Youth Scotland would like to say a big congratulations to all winners of YouthLink Scotland’s National Youth Worker of the Year Awards 2012. A number of Youth Scotland member and award groups were amongst the finalists and runners up, including Citadel Youth Centre and Pilmeny Development Project, who scooped both the Youth Worker of the Year (Intergenerational) Award, as well as the prestigious Overall Winner Award, for their partnership project ‘New Spin’ (pictured below). We are also delighted for Youth 1st Chairman Tom Bain, who picked up the Judy Waterman Award for Services to the Youth Work Sector.
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BIKE CLUB
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Becoming a Bike Club Since the project started in Scotland in June 2010, Bike Club has supported 55 groups to deliver inspiring and exciting programmes of cycling activities for thousands of young people. Why not join them? You don’t need a lot of fancy equipment, just a commitment from the young people you work with that they are willing to give it a go.
Bike Club is delivered by a partnership of CTC, Youth Scotland and ContinYou and is funded by the Asda Foundation.
By becoming a Bike Club, your group can access; • dedicated personal support through Bike Club Development Officers • a range of ideas for encouraging young people • information about funding sources that might be relevant to you and your group • regular updates about Bike Club activity in other areas • free registration for Dynamic Youth Awards & Youth Achievement Awards • Free CTC membership including group insurance
Bike Club provides advice, support and grants for groups working with young people aged between 10 and 20.
How do we get involved? The first stage in getting set up as a Bike Club is to contact your relevant Bike Club Development Officer. They can talk you through the process, support you in planning your project and help you to source funding.
Contacts Amy Hickman (Edinburgh, Lothians, Falkirk and Fife) Email: amy.hickman@bikeclub.org or call 07766 405 369 Victoria Leiper (Glasgow) Email: victoria.leiper@bikeclub.org or call 07766 403 220 Jo MacDonald (other areas) Youth Scotland Senior Development Worker (Networks) Email: jo.macdonald@youthscotland.org.uk or call 0131 554 2561 Find out more at www.youthscotland.org.uk/projects/ bike-club.htm
‘Belles on Bikes’ project Bike Club is currently looking for young women in Edinburgh and Glasgow to take part in a leadership programme designed to get more women out on their bikes. Open to women of any age, the leadership course will include; • Cycling Scotland’s 4 day cycle trainer course • Cycle maintenance training • A Youth Active leadership award Using the skills gained throughout the course, and with support from Bike Club, young women taking part in the leadership course will then be encouraged to set up their own Bike Clubs in their local area. Contact Amy or Victoria to find out more.
Accrediting young people’s cycling activities Bike Club Development Officers Amy and Victoria have recently supported youth workers and volunteers from new Bike Clubs to undergo Youth Achievement Award training, to help them support young people in their groups to gain formal recognition for their hard work and achievements. The youth workers are now looking forward to helping young people use the Awards framework to plan, take part and evaluate their learning. Find out more about accrediting young people’s achievements through Youth Achievement Awards and Dynamic Youth Awards on pages 10 and 11.
Our Active Clubs: Towards a Games Legacy With London 2012 just around the corner, and the 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games not long behind, young people across the Youth Scotland network are getting active and encouraging others to do the same.
Active Nation Snapshot Challenge Winners How would you inspire more young people to be active in their everyday lives? We asked youth groups, clubs and units across the country to take a photo that would do just that.
Judges Fiona Mcintrye, Editor of the Young Scot magazine and Adam Lang, Public Affairs, Media and Communications Officer at YouthLink Scotland had the tricky task of choosing the winners, who will each receive a £300 grant for their group.
The Winners (and why they thought their photos would inspire others...) Young, Free and Fun by Safety 4 Kidz “These images show the spirit and commitment our group has for encouraging young people to get outside and get active. Too much time is spent indoors playing computer games, but these photos show that fun can be free and is accessible to everyone.”
Badaguish Easter Camp - Cromarty Youth Cafe “Even when activities are hard, if you are having fun you just try so much harder. No matter what the weather; rain, hail or shine, we will be out there having a great time.”
Ropes at Whithaugh by 208th Glasgow Boys’ Brigade
Polybagging in the Snow - 3rd Kilmarnock Boys’ Brigade
“The young people that came on this trip came from one of the most deprived areas in Scotland. The simplicity of three young people on a zip swing, who would normally face tough decisions daily, shows it doesn't need much to get out there, be active and have fun.”
“This photograph shows the more positive side to the typical Scottish weather. With snow and beautiful clear blue skies, just look at what you can do!”
Congratulations, and thanks to everyone who entered. View all of the fantastic entries at www.activenationchallenge.org
Area Coordinator John to go to Olympics
Introducing… Rebecca, Youth Active Manager
Youth Scotland is delighted that our very own Area Coordinator, John Nicolson, has been selected from over 250,000 applicants to be a volunteer ‘Games Maker’ at this year’s Olympics. John, who supports Youth Scotland member groups in the Falkirk area, will be joining the 70,000 Games Makers volunteering at London 2012. He will be working as a marshal for the cycling activities, including the mountain bike track and the road race.
At the start of the New Year we welcomed Rebecca Simpson as our new Youth Active Manager. Rebecca joins Youth Scotland from Sports Leaders UK, where as the Project Development Officer for Scotland she supported young people to recognise their achievements in sport and dance leadership. “As Youth Active Manager I am really looking forward to providing opportunities for young people across the country to get more active, and all the amazing benefits that go with it. It's about young people finding the thing that works for them, believing in themselves and really going for it.” Contact rebecca.simpson@youthscotland.org.uk.
Coming soon… Youth Active Pack and Training Modules Youth Scotland is currently developing a Youth Active resource pack and accompanying training modules to support youth workers and volunteers to deliver physical activities with young people. Find out more in the next edition of Magnet!
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GIRLS ON THE MOVE
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New Leadership developments… Sports Leadership course for BME young women Girls on the Move is a programme designed to increase physical activity levels among girls and young women in Scotland. The project is run by Youth Scotland and funded by The Robertson Trust and Health Scotland.
Leadership Girls on the Move leadership courses provide opportunities for young women aged 16-24 to gain leadership skills. They range from 1-day introductions to 5-day residentials and take place across Scotland.
Participation Grants of up to £2,000 for projects and initiatives that aim to increase physical activity levels among girls and young women aged 12 –18.
Move It Essentials Essential training for workers Youth Scotland has recently developed a new series of training focusing on skilling up workers to deliver physical activity with young women. Successful events have already been held in both Edinburgh and Glasgow, with youth workers reporting that the events have given them plenty of ideas to take back to their work with young women. See page 12 for more info.
Girls on the Move is continuing to develop opportunities for young women from black and minority ethnic communities to take on leadership roles. Working in partnership with the Scottish Ethnic Minority Sports Association (SEMSA), Girls on the Move recently ran the first Level 1 Award in Sports Leadership. This non-residential course gave participants the opportunity to develop skills in delivering a range of sport and physical activity programmes. Visit www.youthscotland.org.uk/GirlsontheMove to find out about future leadership courses.
Launch of Level 2 Award in Dance Leadership Girls on the Move, in partnership with Sports Leaders UK, is delivering the first national Sports Leaders UK Level 2 Award in Dance Leadership course. This residential course is open to Girls on the Move participants (aged 16 – 24) who have completed a Level 1 Award in either Sport or Dance leadership. The five day course will build upon the generic leadership skills that were developed in Level 1 and provide more specific training and practical experience. Date: 2nd - 6th April (five day residential course) Venue: Kilgraston School, Bridge of Earn, Perthshire, PH2 9BQ For further information about the Level 2 course, please contact Rebecca Simpson, Youth Active Manager on 0131 554 2561 or email rebecca.simpson@youthscotland.org.uk
Participation – be inspired Some of the Girls on the Move projects that have recently received funding include: • Tweedale Youth Action is running sessions on street dance, cheer leading and Zumba following a consultation with young people attending the group. • The Muslim Women’s Association of Edinburgh is offering badminton and martial arts sessions. The girls will also hold a fund raising event and visit local sports facilities available in the community. • Edinburgh Leisure, in partnership with Active Schools, Muirhouse Youth Development Group and Pilton Youth and Children’s Project have developed a programme of coached trampoline sessions at a reduced cost, as well as supporting young women to attend sessions on the teenage Energize programme and Open all Hours. • Moray Art Centre. Following a short pilot project of street dance classes, the Art Centre is now looking to develop a 5 month project. • Dumfries and Galloway Council Community Learning and Development Service is providing structured activities focusing on physical and mental health, including aqua zumba, gym induction, smoking cessation and healthy eating sessions. • Ayrshire Communities Education and Sport is establishing a girls’ physical activity group, street dance and cheer group, which will also cover health issues and drug and alcohol education. The project will offer free sessions in street dance and cheerleading, as well as zumba and boxercise.
Positive outcomes at Cornton Vale Girls on the Move recently ran a second Leadership Course with the young women at Cornton Vale prison. Building on a successful partnership with the Scottish Prison Service that was first established in 2010, the impact the courses are having on the young women involved is now becoming clear. • Many of the young women involved are now keen to develop their skills in leading others – two young women from the first course at Cornton Vale assisted the dance tutors and provided peer support to the new participants on the second course. • One of these young women is now completing her Platinum Youth Achievement Award, a qualification which is credit levelled at SCQF level 7 and is comparable to an Advanced Higher or HNC. • Upon release, a participant from the most recent course is now working with her social worker and other staff to lead sessions within her own community. • Feedback from the courses has demonstrated a real change in attitude and confidence for individuals; “I gained more confidence and it taught me to just give everything a try”, said one participant. “I think I gained a lot of self confidence and learned how to work better in a team and by myself”, said another.
SNIPPETS Girls on the Move presents in Paris As a result of Girls on the Move’s selection as a case study for the World Health Organisation, the project was recently invited to present at the International Sports and Culture Association’s Move 2011 conference in Paris. The event brought a wide range of practitioners from around the world, to share best practice and discuss innovative new ways to deliver physical activity to young women in a community-based context. Girls on the Move presented on ‘Overcoming the barriers for hard to reach, inactive, teenage girls’. The presentation was very well received, and was subsequently featured in Danish magazine, DGI.
The partners have agreed that Girls on the Move supports Cornton Vale to achieve their offenders’ outcomes and contributes significantly to the health and wellbeing agenda. The courses aim to build confidence amongst the women who take part, increase their communication skills, give them a sense of self-esteem and prepare them better for release. While dance may have been the primary attraction for the young women, developing life skills has been the key focus of the project.
Girls on the Move continues to develop dialogues with international organisations such as France and Canada, sharing experience and skills in the field of physical activity promotion in socially disadvantaged groups.
The partnership with the Scottish Prison Service has now developed to include courses for young women at Saughton Prison.
Placement for Iona from Strathclyde University
Boys on Beat Do you work with young men interested in developing their skills in dance? Youth Scotland continues to run our innovative Boys on Beat programme, with a new course scheduled for this Easter. Delivered in partnership with The Stand in Glasgow, this non residential course is open to young men aged 14 - 24 and will offer them the opportunity to work towards a Sports Leaders UK Level 1 Award in Dance Leadership and a Bronze Youth Achievement Award. Young men do not have to have prior dance experience, only a willingness to give it a go! A participant from a previous leadership course said; “The course was challenging, but also really inspiring. It took me out of my comfort zone. By the end of the week I was standing in front of everyone taking a class. I would say to anyone applying for the next Boys on Beat course, go with an open mind – anything can happen.” Find out more, including how to apply, at www.youthscotland.org.uk/projects/boys-on-beat.htm
Girls on the Move is currently providing an opportunity for a student from Strathclyde University’s Community Arts degree to undertake her practical placement with the project. Iona Smillie, a previous Leadership course participant, is working with Girls on the Move to plan, deliver and evaluate her own Girls on the Move leadership course with young women in Glasgow. We are delighted to be able to support the professional development of future community practitioners, and look forward to developing similar opportunities in the future. Best of luck Iona!
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magnet What happens in your youth group? THE MAGAZINE OF YOUTH SCOTLAND’S NETWORK
Stage 7:
Info...
Young people take on a leadership or peer education role
Stage 6: Young people plan, organise and lead activities Youth Scotland’s projects and programmes are based upon John Huskin’s youth work Young people help to organise activities Curriculum Development Model, (referenced in the 1996 publication ‘Quality Work with Young People’). This model provides a framework for describing the progression of young Young people take part in activities people through youth work. Many of these stages can be recognised through Dynamic Youth Awards and Young people socialise and engage Youth Achievement Awards. in regular discussions For more information, visit www.youthscotland.org.uk
Stage 5:
Stage 4:
Platinum Youth Achievement Awards SCQF Level 7 Gold Youth Achievement Awards SCQF Level 6 Silver Youth Achievement Awards SCQF Level 5 Bronze Youth Achievement Awards SCQF Level 4
Stage 3:
Stage 2:
Young people meet regularly
Stage 1: Young people make initial contact
CASE STUDY
A safe place to meet A wide range of youth groups make up Youth Scotland’s membership, including youth clubs, youth centres, information projects, youth cafes, action groups and projects. 50% of these groups are based in small towns and rural areas, offering a much-needed place for young people to meet. Each week, around 40 young people come together to get involved in a variety of activities at Cruden Bay Youth Club. Meeting on a Friday night in the local high school sports hall, the club provides a space for young people to socialise, make contact and engage with each other. Developing trust and sharing, the young people have a chance to use the facility’s computers, take part in physical activities such as table tennis, badminton and football and do arts and crafts. “In Cruden Bay there isn’t that much for young people to do," said Chairperson John Senior. "We provide a safe place where they can come together and meet each other
regularly, build up relationships and maybe try some new activities. Giving young people this kind of opportunity has a tremendous impact on their confidence, self-esteem and awareness of others.”
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Youth Scotland’s network of member groups and clubs includes young people in youth groups. Within these groups, young people are doing fantastic things. Here’s some of the stories we know about... do you have more? Email them to meg.watson@youthscotland.org.uk
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CASE STUDY
Skills for life
Movies for communities
Kirsty, aged 16, recently took part in a Youth Scotland organised First Aid course as part of a programme of activities with her youth group. Working alongside her peers, Kirsty learnt essential emergency live saving skills, such as how to help someone who is choking or unconscious.
Last year, a group of young people from Tarland carried out an engagement project to determine what kinds of activities young people would like to see take place in their local area.
Kirsty gained a British Red Cross certificate for her involvement, but perhaps more importantly the confidence to deal with such a situation. She was unexpectedly put to the test a few weeks later, when she helped a member of the public who had collapsed. Using the skills she had learnt, she placed him in the recovery position, called for an ambulance, ensured his condition remained stable, and waited with him until the emergency services arrived.
Following a consultation process, they established a cinema project which shows films fortnightly in the local MacRobert Hall. Running each session themselves, with support from adults in the community, the young people, aged 14 – 16, have also explored ways to promote the activity to others through Facebook and email. Some have started Youth Achievement Awards and the group plans to develop the project further through Youth Scotland’s Involvement Training programme. “I’ve been really impressed with the level of commitment and enthusiasm shown by the young people involved in this project”, said Lizzy Shepherd, Marr Area Partnership Development Officer. “They have developed key skills in planning and organising meetings and have developed a real sense of responsibility. They have also been excellent in representing the project to the wider community, getting a mention in the Abyone Academy Learning Community HMIE report.”
CASE STUDY
CASE STUDY
Raising funds
Paranormal activity
Kayleigh, aged 18, was keen to raise money for comic relief, so she worked with her youth group to plan a jumble sale in the local community centre. Using the Gold level Youth Achievement Award as a framework, Kayleigh explored the issues involved in raising money and took responsibility for planning and running the jumble sale.
Jamie, aged 21, created a heritage drama project for young people as part of his Platinum Youth Achievement Award. 25 young people were involved in promoting Falkirk’s history to the town’s visitors.
“I received a fundraising pack and then had to think carefully about how I would plan the sale, including getting others to help out," said Kayleigh. "Getting enough people to come was tricky, but I am really pleased with how it went in the end. I gained knowledge about the wider world and about the needs of others, as well as good fundraising ideas for the future.”
With Jamie’s support, the group researched characters and devised a script, made costumes, mapped out the route and rehearsed their lines. They have now delivered guided walks to around 500 people, using the funds raised to pay for new costumes and sound effects. Each young person has achieved a Dynamic Youth Award or Youth Achievement Award for their individual contribution, while Jamie collected his Platinum Award as well as a Young Scot 2011 Award for Heritage.
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Accreditation Youth Scotland supports young people to gain recognition for their achievements through Youth Achievement Awards and Dynamic Youth Awards. These Awards are offered through a network of agencies, including youth groups, volunteer centres, youth councils, local authorities, voluntary agencies, colleges and schools.
achievement awards
Dynamic Youth Awards (10-14 year olds) and Youth Achievement Awards (14+), accessed via Youth Scotland, enable young people to measure their own and each other’s achievements through youth work approaches and to develop new skills. The Youth Achievement Awards are placed on the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF).
The Youth Achievement Award journey Youth Achievement Awards provide a framework for young people to recognise their achievements through a youth work approach. On successful completion, a young person gains a Youth Achievement Award, an SCQF credit rated qualification, and a whole heap of skills. We asked one award recipient, Stuart, about his Youth Achievement Award journey. Stuart, from Falkirk, was initially encouraged to do a Bronze Youth Achievement Award by the youth worker at his local youth group. “I got involved with my local youth group when I was in Primary 5, and I went along with my pals. I didn’t know what a youth club was but it was great, there wasn’t a lot to do in my area so having something to go to every week was a bonus. We did cool stuff, like arts and crafts, cooking and outdoor activities. My worker suggested we do Bronze Youth Achievement Awards when we started on a project to decorate the inside of our youth club. Doing the award was good because we got to choose exactly what we wanted to do; we researched, came up with the designs for the walls and then got an artist to come in and show us how to do it. My picture was a car, and I was so proud of it. When we had completed the project we had a celebration evening where we were presented with a certificate in a frame. I just remember it felt really amazing to have got it. At school I had never got anything like that. It was great. And my picture of the car is still there, in the youth club!” Stuart continues to play an active role in his community. Having completed a Platinum Youth Achievement Award, he now works as Youth Scotland’s Youth Work in Sport trainee, providing support to youth groups in his area, as well as to projects across Scotland.
CASE STUDY
Do the young people you work have a Youth Achievement Award journey they would like to share? We would love to feature them in Magnet. Email awards@youthscotland.org.uk with your young people’s awards journeys.
Young Scot Rewards
The year in figures
Youth Scotland is working in partnership with Young Scot to become a Young Scot Points Provider for the Dynamic Youth Awards and Youth Achievement Awards. This means that in addition to gaining accredited recognition for young people’s achievements, young people achieving the Awards will also receive points on their Young Scot National Entitlement Card (NEC). The points and rewards scheme is part of new platform called Young Scot Rewards.
How many points will young people get? 1 star Dynamic Youth Award
250 Points
2 star Dynamic Youth Award
500 Points
3 star Dynamic Youth Award
1,000 Points
4 star Dynamic Youth Award
1,500 Points
5 star Dynamic Youth Award
2,000 Points
Bronze Youth Achievement Award
1,500 Points
Silver Youth Achievement Award
2,000 Points
Gold Youth Achievement Award
2,500 Points
Platinum Youth Achievement Award
3,000 Points
2010 - 2011 was a momentous year for Youth Scotland’s Awards schemes.
3,049 young people aged 10-14 gained recognition for their achievements through Dynamic Youth Awards
1,162 young people aged 14+ gained recognition for their achievements (and an SCQF credit rated qualification) through the Youth Achievement Awards
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organisations A network of worked in partnership to enable young people to gain awards, including youth groups, local authorities, schools and colleges
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What do the points mean? Points received by young people can be redeemed for ‘money-can’t-buy’ rewards and unique experiences, such as a free driving lesson with BSM, diving with sharks at Deep Sea World, working with Banana Row music professionals or shadowing a top lawyer.
Dynamic The Youth Award was awarded to a young person in the Highlands Youth Scotland would like to say a massive congratulations to everyone that has achieved an award!
How do young people receive their points and rewards? Once young people have completed their Dynamic Youth Award or Youth Achievement Award, Youth Scotland will send them Young Scot Reward vouchers along with their certificates. Points can be collected and redeemed online at www.youngscot.org.
Awards Induction Training
More information For more information about the Reward scheme, visit www.youngscot.net or contact David McNeill, Entitlements and Rewards Director, at davidm@youngscot.org or on 0131 313 2488.
New Awards Coordinator We welcome Lara Jenkinson as the new Awards Coordinator. Lara looks forward to providing a quality experience for learners and supporting agencies accessing the Dynamic Youth Awards, Youth Achievement Awards and other Youth Scotland youth work initiatives. Contact lara.jenkinson@youthscotland.org.uk
Did you know that Youth Scotland members can now register to deliver the Dynamic Youth Awards, absolutely free? Youth Scotland member groups are entitled to free registration, and up to 10 free Dynamic Youth Award Challenge Sheets per year.
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Free Dynamic Youth Awards for Youth Scotland Members
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New to the Awards? Want to know how they work, and how your group could use them? Youth Scotland’s Youth Achievement Awards Induction Training Days are open to everyone interested in supporting young people to gain Youth Achievement Awards and/or Dynamic Youth Awards.
Dates for 2012 10th April, Edinburgh 6th June, Aberdeen 16th August, Glasgow 10th October, Edinburgh 5th December, Glasgow
Visit www.youthscotland.org.uk/Training to book. Youth Scotland is also currently developing an Introduction to Dynamic Youth Awards training course. Keep your eye on the Youth Scotland Training Calendar for details.
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magnet Training
THE MAGAZINE OF YOUTH SCOTLAND’S NETWORK Youth Scotland’s Training Essentials are a series of free, local one day training events, giving youth workers and volunteers the opportunity to develop new skills, increase their knowledge and meet others doing similar work in their area.
ESSENTIALS
Training Essentials offers a range of exciting workshops, including Arts Smart, Conflict Resolution, Evaluation and Outcomes, Active Clubs, Internet Safety and Young People, Alcohol and Drugs.
Essential Training for Youth Workers and Volunteers
Forthcoming Training Essentials events are scheduled for Stirling, Aberdeenshire and Glasgow. Visit www.youthscotland.org.uk/Training for dates and booking.
Professional Development Award in Youth Work
Move It Essentials
Involvement Training Tutor Training
The PDA in Youth Work gives youth workers and volunteers the chance to build their skills in youth work by undertaking a nationally recognised, SQA accredited qualification at SCQF Level 6.
Move It Essentials is part of a new series of training run by Youth Scotland, focusing on skilling up workers to deliver physical activity programmes for young women.
Youth Scotland's Involvement Training programme is a structured first step to developing young people as leaders in their own communities. The first stage in the Involvement Training programme is a one day tutor training course for workers.
Whether it’s dance, sport or games, these free events will give you the confidence to lead activities back in your own group. Delegates can choose from a choice of four workshops, including Get Dancing, Skipping, Young Women and Physical Activity and Next Steps.
This training will introduce workers to what’s involved in the programme, and equip workers with the knowledge and skills to support young people to deliver Involvement Training Stage 1.
Following the pilot last year, 2 courses are now successfully underway in the Borders and the Lothians, and Youth Scotland is actively developing opportunities for courses in other areas. Find out more at the Youth Scotland website, and make sure you are signed up to Youth Scotland e-news for the latest on new courses.
Find out more at www.youthscotland.org.uk/Training
Next Involvement Training Tutor Training dates: 10th April, Isle of Lewis 24th April, Glasgow 2nd May, Edinburgh
Streetgames An Innovative Partnership Youth Scotland is developing more physical activity opportunities for young people, through an innovative partnership with sports charity StreetGames. Launched in January 2007, StreetGames aims to change lives and communities by supporting a network of projects which give sporting and volunteering opportunities to young people in disadvantaged communities. It includes the Co-operative StreetGames Young Volunteers (CSYG) programme, which supports young people to make the most of their talents and abilities through volunteering. Lois Marshall, as Youth Scotland's new Young Leader Development Worker, will play a key role in delivering the Cooperative StreetGames Young Volunteers programme in Scotland. Lois, who was formerly part of Youth Scotland’s Girls on the Move team, believes the possibilities are endless. “StreetGames is a really exciting initiative, bringing accessible and enjoyable activities to young people, where and when they want to get involved”, said Lois. “I can see it really taking off.”
“As part of the wider Youth Scotland Young Leader programme, this partnership will be of real benefit to young people across Scotland, offering more opportunities for young people to get involved in their communities, receive training and support and become skilled, confident leaders.” Youth Scotland and StreetGames are currently working together to identify pilot projects for this exciting new piece of work. Together, they will be developing training sessions and additional support material for youth workers including workshops on retaining and mentoring young sports volunteers. Keep an eye on the Youth Scotland Training Calendar for more info.
Support in Aberdeenshire
SNIPPETS
Youth Scotland is committed to ensuring that community-based youth groups have access to face-to-face support, information, advice and guidance. This is particularly important for groups in harder to reach areas, such as rural and island communities.
New Activities Coordinator for Youth Highland
With support from CashBack for Communities and Aberdeenshire Council, Youth Scotland has been able to provide a strong, successful support network for youth work organisations and young people in Aberdeenshire. Over the past year, Youth Scotland Area Coordinators Mary Cochrane and Linda Babbs have helped groups get set up and apply for funding as well as providing training sessions for youth workers at times and places that suit them. Last year’s highlights include; • A successful Training Essentials event, in which 37 youth workers and volunteers developed skills in Child Protection, Young People & Self Esteem, Active Clubs & ArtSmart. • Further worker training sessions, including First Aid, Raising your game, Keep it Real and Involvement Training Tutor Training, which equipped workers with ideas and confidence to engage volunteers and young people. • 22 young leaders completed Bored Meetings training and Involvement Training, and are now in the process of using the skills they have developed to run projects with their peers. • A number of new groups were established, including Really Cool Club, Action Kintore, Inferno, Kennethmount, Tarland Youth Cinema, Banchory Youth Initiatives and Strathdon Youth Group. “Our roles, and the resources we have, mean that young people and youth workers gain access to training and support at a local level. In Aberdeenshire this is especially important - due to the rural nature of the areas there are limited opportunities for young people to get involved in,” said Linda. “The success of Youth Scotland’s Aberdeenshire project is also due to the dedicated volunteers who keep these groups going," added Mary. “We help them with a range of issues such as PVG, policies, funding etc, so they can continue to go on delivering fantastic work.”
Youth Highland welcomes Julia MacLeod as their new Activities Co-ordinator. Julia will be supporting the development of activities and opportunities in youth clubs and groups in Highland. The post is part of a joint project between Youth Scotland and Youth Highland, and is funded by CashBack for Communities and the Robertson Trust.
Youth Scotland in Orkney Since last September, Youth Scotland has been working with Orkney Islands Council, Orkney Association of Youth Clubs, the Robertson Trust and CashBack for Communities to support community-based youth programmes in Orkney. Area Coordinator Maureen Herdman has been very busy supporting youth groups across the islands to plan and deliver existing and new initiatives, including Fit/Fun Days, rock music workshops and concerts, a First Gear driver safety programme, food hygiene courses and a range of physical activity programmes.
Update: YouthBorders
Get Set for Play Toolkit Youth Highland, Youth Scotland’s partner association in the Highlands, has recently launched ‘Get Set for Play’, a brand new toolkit for youth clubs and groups. Funded by Inspiring Scotland’s Go Play fund, this bright and accessible toolkit is full of information and advice on introducing play activities into your youth group programme. While the activities are aimed specifically at children and young people attending junior youth groups, the activities can easily be adapted for older age groups. It includes a section of ideas for games, as well as information about the benefits of play, challenges and solutions, and paperwork (template policies and forms are also provided to make paperwork as pain free as possible!). Youth Scotland member groups in the Highlands can request their free copy directly from Youth Highland, by emailing info@youthhighland.org.uk. Groups and organisations out with the Highlands can also purchase the toolkit. Cost: £13 (Youth Scotland Members) and £18 (Non-Members). Order the toolkit at www.youthscotland.org.uk/Resources
Having spent the previous two years working hard to focus on the sustainability of youth work in the Borders, YouthBorders is now turning its attention to supporting the range and quality of youth work provision provided by its members. This includes developing a robust programme of training and activitites for youth workers, volunteers and young people. Supporting this development is new Development Coordinator (Youth Work), Ceri Hunter. Ceri, who joins the Association from LGBT Youth Scotland, is looking forward to working with member groups in this exciting new phase. Download YouthBorders’ Impact Report at www.youthborders.org.uk/ impactreport11
NETWORK
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THE MAGAZINE OF YOUTH SCOTLAND’S NETWORK
Third edition of Amazing Things The Awards Network is delighted to announce the publication of the third edition of Amazing Things – a guide to the youth awards in Scotland. The publication has been produced by the Awards Network, a forum of twenty-one providers of non-formal learning awards across Scotland. The Awards Network was established by Youth Scotland as part of the Scottish Government’s Volunteer Action Plan.
This flagship publication includes: • Forewords from; Aileen Campbell, Minister for Children and Young People; Dr Bill Maxwell, Chief Executive Officer, Education Scotland; and Iain McMillan, Director CBI Scotland • A useful, at a glance Index of Awards • The awards in detail, including key features, case studies, contact details and web links for further information • A section that contextualises the awards in relation to Curriculum for Excellence • Information about the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) and how different types of learning fit together
Aimed at everyone who places a value on young people’s voluntary effort to develop their own skills and improve the communities around them, Amazing Things (third edition) is a key document for youth work organisations, schools, colleges, universities, and employers.
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How to get your copy Amazing Things (third edition) is available to download for free from www.youthscotland.org.uk/AmazingThings
Visit www.awardsnetwork.org to use the online award search facility and keep up to date with Awards Network news.
More for your money - Youth Scotland Membership
A safe youth work environment: PVG update
We know times are tight. For as little as £45 your youth group could have:
In February 2011, the Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scheme replaced the old Disclosure system.
• Help to register workers/ volunteers with the PVG scheme • Access to a tailor-made insurance package, including a special package for smaller groups • Access to Youth Work Essentials, which includes information, sample policies and employment law advice • Free or discounted training, delivered at times and locations that suit you • Free Dynamic Youth Awards registration • Access to up to £2,000 through Youth Scotland's small grants schemes • Peace of mind, knowing that your group is part of a network of around 1,000 youth groups delivering safe and inspiring activities for Scotland's young people. Find out more about the benefits of Youth Scotland membership and the insurance package at www.youthscotland. org.uk/JoinUs
Membership Matters 2011/12 Youth Scotland is the network of youth clubs and groups in Scotland. We are the largest non-uniformed youth organisation in Scotland and deliver quality youth work programmes, information, resources, training and support to community-based youth work across Scotland. This booklet is designed to give you more details about the benefits of being a member of Youth Scotland and guide you through how your group can access these benefits. Information about all Youth Scotland projects and services can be found at www.youthscotland.org.uk
We are now approaching the second phase of implementation, where existing staff and volunteers will be transferred from the old disclosure process to the PVG scheme. This will be completed gradually, over a period of two years. Youth Scotland will outline the exact procedure for groups when the implementation date is confirmed. Youth Scotland has produced a summary information sheet about the PVG system and what it means for youth groups and individual workers and volunteers. You can download this information sheet at www.youthscotland.org.uk/JoinUs Remember: Youth Scotland also provides further guidance on how to comply with the PVG scheme through the Safe and Sound channel of the Youth Work Essentials site. www.youthscotland.org.uk/YouthWorkEssentials
Towergate Insurance provides Youth Scotland member groups with both a specialist insurance package and specialist advice on insurance for youth groups. To be a member of Youth Scotland, you do not have to take this insurance cover but you must be able to demonstra te that you have adequate insurance cover from another source.
Please contact Jo MacDonald, Senior Development Worker Networks on jo.macdonald@youthscotland.org.uk or 0131 554 2561 with any PVG queries.
CashBack Small Grants Scheme Helping get groups up and running
SNIPPETS 2014 Communities
Since the CashBack Small Grants Scheme was established, £421,258 has been distributed to 437 projects across Scotland, benefitting more than 24,580 young people. It has supported some great programmes of activity for young people, and crucially, has allowed groups to be established in areas where they are needed most. For example, a start-up grant through the CashBack Small Grants Scheme provided a much-needed programme of activities for the young people of Inverbervie in Aberdeenshire. Following consultation with young people, parents and other local residents, it was clear that there was a lack of opportunity for young people locally. Location was a major barrier - young people were often required to travel 10-15 miles away to access the nearest youth group activities. With support from the CashBack Small Grants Scheme, Bervie Youth Club was established to provide young people with access to fun, safe and accessible activities. The £800 grant enabled the group to purchase simple equipment to support the weekly running of the group, including a games console, arts and crafts materials and sports equipment. The group now continues to run on a regular basis and is a recognised place for young people in the community to socialise and develop their skills. “Young people in Inverbervie are less likely to hang about the street now that they have somewhere to go to,” said Karen Hay, group Chairperson. “It has also meant that more adults are becoming involved in volunteering in the local community, and these volunteers are becoming skilled in vital areas such as food hygiene and child protection. It has made a real difference to the young people in our area.”
Apply Now To be eligible for a Small Grant, groups or units must be led by volunteers and be a member of one of the six partnership organisations; The Scout Association, Girlguiding Scotland, Boys’ Brigade, The Girls’ Brigade in Scotland, Clubs for Young People (Scotland) or Youth Scotland. Find out more at www.youthscotland.org.uk/projects/cashback-small-grants-scheme.htm
Big Lottery Fund's 2014 Communities is a micro grants programme, offering local sports clubs, voluntary and community organisations, community councils and schools grants of £300 to £2,000 to support and stimulate grass roots involvement in sport and physical activity, in the run up to the 2014 Commonwealth Games. www.biglotteryfund.org.uk/prog_ 2014_communities
People Making Waves: Volunteer Bursaries and Small Grants People Making Waves is a 4 year programme that will invite the people of Scotland to connect with the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games and the Olympic Movement in general, to express its values of excellence, respect, equality, courage, determination, inspiration and friendship. Volunteer bursaries of up to £500 are available to cover expenses for volunteers in London or Scotland. Funding of up to £2,000 is available for groups looking to increase participation in arts and crafts activities long-term. www.peoplemakingwaves.org.uk
Big Lottery launches Young Start Fund A new fund aimed at unlocking the potential of Scotland's children and young people has been launched by the Big Lottery Fund. The Young Start fund will award grants of between £10,000 and £50,000 for projects lasting up to two years. The fund, which uses money from dormant bank accounts, is forecast to invest £8.9 million by March 2013. The Young Start fund aims to create opportunities for children and young people aged 8 to 24 to help realise their potential. It is aimed at third sector organisations including community groups, social enterprises, housing associations, sports organisations, cooperatives and charities. Find out more at www.biglotteryfund.org.uk/prog_young_start
Don’t forget, you can find a range of funding opportunities at the ‘Funding’ section of the Youth Scotland website and in our regular e-news bulletins – sign up at www.youthscotland.org.uk/ENews
Young Scot Creative Enterprise Fund Young Scot and Creative Scotland’s Creative Enterprise Fund is now open for applications. The fund supports young people aged 15 – 22 to flourish within the creative industries. It offers awards of up to £200 for individuals or £750 for groups. Eligible activities might include running local youth dance classes, managing theatre productions or getting a band up and running. The Grants Committee meets every two months. www.youngscotextra.org/cef
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THE MAGAZINE OF YOUTH SCOTLAND’S NETWORK
Youth Scotland is the largest non-uniformed youth organisation in Scotland. We deliver quality youth work programmes, information, resources, training and support to community-based youth work across Scotland. Participation
Leadership
Accreditation
Supporting workers and volunteers
Supporting youth groups and organisations
Partnership and innovation
Keep It Real
Involvement Training Programme
Dynamic Youth Awards
Training Essentials
Youth Scotland Membership
The Youth Scotland Network
Girls on the Move Leadership courses
Youth Achievement Awards
Insurance for Youth Groups
Volunteering Action Plan
Support with Child Protection issues
The Awards Network
Bored Meetings Bike Club
PPSS National Training Conference PDA in Youth Work
Girls on the Move Participation Programme
Boys on Beat Raising Your Game Young Leader Programme
Resources and Toolkits www.youthscotland. org.uk Magnet E-bulletins Twitter
Youth Work Essentials Website
respectme Anti-Bullying projects
Monitoring and Evaluation Support Law at Work Small Grants Schemes: • CashBack • Girls on the Move
STAFF Based at the Youth Scotland offices in Edinburgh: Carol Downie Chief Executive Steven Greig Youth Work Manager George Cherrie Senior Awards Development Worker Jo MacDonald Senior Development Worker (Networks) Lara Jenkinson Awards Co-ordinator Rebecca Simpson Youth Active Manager Vacancy Girls on the Move Development Worker Lois Marshall Young Leader Development Worker
Michele Meehan Training and Communications Manager Meg Watson Communications Development Worker Suzanne Forup Network Development Manager (currently on maternity leave) Mandy Paterson Operations Manager Susan MacNeill Financial Administrator (p/t) Kayleigh Linton Office Administrator Based within Areas: Jessica Mills Programme Development Manager, Youth Highland Julia MacLeod Activities Co-ordinator, Youth Highland
Linda Babbs Area Co-ordinator South Aberdeenshire Mary Cochrane Area Co-ordinator North Aberdeenshire John Nicolson Area Co-ordinator, Falkirk Stuart Conquer Youth Work in Sport Trainee Glynis Lockhart Youth Development Worker, Galloway Susan Pollock Youth Worker, Dumfriesshire Maureen Herdman Area Co-ordinator, Orkney Vacancy Area Co-ordinator, Dumfries & Galloway Email addresses for all staff are firstname.lastname@youthscotland.org.uk
Youth Scotland works in partnership with a network of autonomous Area Associations throughout Scotland to support the delivery of local, community-based youth work. All contact details for Area Associations can be found on the ‘Network’ pages of the Youth Scotland website. www.youthscotland.org.uk/network/network1.htm Youth Scotland, Balfour House 19 Bonnington Grove, Edinburgh EH6 4BL Tel: 0131 554 2561 Fax: 0131 454 3438 Email: office@youthscotland.org.uk Web: www.youthscotland.org.uk.
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