Agenda item

Presentation by Martin Sawdon from the Exodus Project

Appendix A – Youth Development Fund Outputs and Outcomes

Martin Sawdon from the Exodus Project was welcomed to the meeting.  Martin explained that the project had been running for more than 10 years in Barnsley, working with children and young people with the aim of diverting them from anti-social behaviour and enabling them to fulfil their potential.  The Exodus Project now has 15 clubs across the Borough with a wide variety of activities such as dance, drama, crafts and games.  There is also a significant education element and the young people have the opportunity to talk about issues such as citizenship, anti-social behaviour etc.  The project provides midweek activities, weekend camps and volunteer development, working with schools and community organisations at galas etc.  The project has over 70 volunteers, who are mainly former service users.  The North East Project in Cudworth works with around 30 children at after school clubs, providing youth groups for children aged 8-11 and 11-15.  Local children have been to the camps, day trips and taken part in activities such as bowling at the Metrodome.  Various sessions are held, at 5.30 until 7 for the younger children and then at 7.30 until 9 for the older children.  Lots of activities are provided in the summer months.  The project has received 5 separate lottery grants, but the biggest issue faced is that of funding sustainability as the aim is to make a difference long-term in an area.

A Member asked about the location of the camps.  It was explained that the Project has used Scout Dyke previously but now has its own weekend activity camp site at South Hiendley, in a former Methodist church.

A question was raised about whether the project tackled anti-social behaviour on the streets.  It was explained that this was not an area of expertise and both the YMCA and the Youth Offending Team do this type of work.  However, provision of activities, particularly during school holidays, would help to combat anti-social behaviour amongst young people.  Martin was thanked for his attendance and contribution.

The Area Council Manager updated Members on the Youth Development Fund current projects, including financial allocations, number of volunteers, volunteer hours, number of young people attending and ‘in kind’ contributions.