The Young Helms Programme at Cobnor Activities Centre Trust focused on supporting local disadvantaged young people facing mental health challenges or learning difficulties.
Through keelboat sailing, the initiative aimed to equip participants with transferable life skills such as self-confidence, resilience and teamwork. Without this funding, these young people would not have had this opportunity. Due to the overwhelming success of the programme, we will seek funding for the coming years to continue supporting the most vulnerable and disadvantaged young people in our local community.
Key Findings
The 2024 Young Helms programme continued to be as popular as in previous years, with early 200 young people participating alongside their support workers. Five returning groups brought both new and familiar members, while five new groups joined the programme. We are now exploring ongoing partnerships with these groups to offer further support. Feedback from participants and their support workers expressed deep gratitude, as many would not have otherwise experienced such an opportunity.
The guide age range for the programme was 16-40 years, but one group comprised children aged 10-11years old from a local primary school. They were included because their particular year group had a high level of need and helped with their transition from primary to secondary education.
Sessions ran from March to November and a voluntary £5.00 contribution was requested to confirm commitment. This contribution was at the discretion of individuals and organisations, with 50% of groups opting out. Any additional funds allowed instructors and volunteers to share lunch with the participants. Two groups also took advantage of a concessional rate for afternoon land activities, making it a full day experience. The programme was particularly well-received by CACT volunteers and young instructors, who were enthusiastic about participating. Overall, the 2024 Fat Face Foundation Young Helms programme had another successful year and we are already receiving booking requests for 2025, funding permitting.
See full Impact Report here.
Parents of YOUNG HELMS 2024
“Both my children had a brilliant day, everyone
was lovely and friendly, and they were both able to push themselves and try a
new activity. They made friends and came away smiling and more confident. Thank
you for providing such a great experience for them.”
“Thank you for a lovely afternoon of sailing. My daughter really enjoyed herself and didn’t stop talking about it. She said she felt really relaxed, felt quite free and calm. She enjoyed it more than last time. She would happily attend again. She particularly loved jumping in the water!”
