“We decided to launch a virtual youth club” – Deputy Mayor commends youth workers’ efforts

Salford youth workers have won praise for launching a virtual youth club set up in response to Coronavirus.

Swinton and Pendlebury Youth (SPY) usually runs at the Deans Youth Centre on a Tuesday from 4pm to 6pm, however the pandemic means the group cannot get together.

To keep young people occupied, a virtual youth club has been created.

Deputy Mayor Councillor John Merry said: “Our youth workers have been offering a lot of support via social media, but young people were really missing going to Deans Youth Centre so we decided to launch a virtual youth club.

“Four young people took part in the first session but we are hoping for more and more – once everyone masters the technology.

“It’s a learning curve for all involved.

“We launched it with some icebreakers and games and a discussion about what young people want from the sessions and will do our best to respond to that.

“It will continue for as long as it is needed.

“I hope young people will enjoy it and it helps them stay safe at home to protect the NHS and save lives.”

Dont forget spy_m27 are running a youth club session online tonight at 4pm.
If you want to get involved DM them with your email address and you will get an invite.#salfordyouthservice #spy #youthwork #salford… https://t.co/OU7ng7cShZ

— Wuu2 website (@wuu2salford) April 21, 2020

The Tuesday sessions used to focus on outdoor activities such as bushcraft, fishing, climbing and cooking.

There are different groups including a young women’s group, a group for Year 6 pupils and a Friday night youth session.

In addition to one-off sessions, the youth club also hosts days out and residentials.

The aim is to work with young people to develop their skills, improve their self-esteem and resilience and to help them push themselves and reach their potential.

Whilst the normal service is temporarily suspended, the virtual youth club is running from 4pm every Tuesday.

Anyone aged 11-18 who wants to join the virtual youth club session can email kath.pollit@salford.gov.uk, or send a private message to the Instagram page @spy_M27 or The Deans Youth Centre on Facebook.