Knockmoyle Youth Committee

Public benefits

The children grow in social independence by means of participation and there is a reduction in anxiety through interaction with others in a safe and secure environment. Attendance at the club encourages them to experience and learn, acceptance and understanding of others and develop appropriate beliefs and values. The success of the club, which

operates during school term time, is evidenced by regular attendance at the weekly youth club, an increase in membership numbers and participation in all off-site social events. Following its success and feedback from the parents, a few years ago the Committee introduced a summer scheme during the month of August, subsidised by fundraising and grants, in order to make it affordable to all families. This has been hugely popular and very successful and supported by the local community. There is the potential harm of injuries during play however all incidents are recorded in an accident book and staff and volunteers have undertaken Emergency First Aid training. All staff and volunteers have also attended Child Protection Training and Volunteer Induction training. The Youth Club also has a Child Protection policy and Health & Safety risk assessments. The main beneficiaries are the young people who attend the club, their families and the wider local rural community. The club charges a minimum amount for all activities that it runs, which are subsidised from fundraising activities supported by parents/families, the wider community and volunteers and from grants received. This allows all families to participate and helps to relieve poverty and reduce rural social isolation of young people in the area. Private benefits flowing from its purpose are (i) wages paid to the youth leaders which we believe is essential for expertise, creativity and sustainability in running the youth club and (ii) volunteers occasionally gain access to outings free of charge for e.g. cinema trips, however this is incidental and necessary, because without their input there would not be the required level of supervision.

What your organisation does

Multi sport cross community youth club with sessions for 4-10 year olds and 11-16 year olds. Activities at the club include, football, basketball, hockey, activity games and board games, arts & craft, cookery and general play. In addition for our senior members of the club we would also facilitate swimming, pizza nights and cinema visits.