Youth service supports over 120 youngsters in Auchinleck

Delivered through Auchinleck Community Development Initiative (ACDI), the service has become an increasingly important part of the local community, providing a safe, welcoming and inclusive space for young people from primary three through to S4.

The youth service is looking to grown. (Image: ACDI)

Through twice-weekly youth groups and secondary school drop-in sessions, the service has successfully engaged 127 children and young people, giving them opportunities to make new friends, try new experiences and take part in different activities every week.

The programme offers a wide variety of activities, including sports, games, crafts, cooking, outdoor learning and educational workshops.

Youth groups run throughout the week, with sessions tailored to different age groups and affordable entry at just £2 per session.

These activities are aimed at helping young people build confidence, develop social skills, form positive friendships and strengthen their connection to the community.

Sheryl Graham, youth co-ordinator at ACDI and a key member of the youth service, has seen how it has helped so many people in recent times.

The youth service is looking to grown. (Image: ACDI)

She said: "Every young person has potential. Being able to watch that potential grow through laughter, learning, new experiences, and friendships is a privilege.

"I look forward to seeing our youth group continue to inspire and support young people for years to come."

A significant achievement has been the recruitment and training of young volunteers, many of whom are working towards Saltire Awards while developing valuable leadership skills.

Strong partnerships with local schools and community organisations have further enhanced the support available to young people.

Looking ahead, the youth service aims to expand its reach, create more volunteering and leadership opportunities, introduce accredited learning programmes and provide new experiences through trips and outdoor activities.

The youth service is looking to grown. (Image: ACDI)

Understandably delighted at the youth service has been running, ACDI chair Bobby McCallum added: “After a lot of hard work and trial and error by our team, myself and the board of ACDI are delighted to be able to fulfil a major part of our three-year development plan by putting in place a new and exciting structure for work with young people, thanks to funding from Youth Link Scotland.

"One of the main purposes of our organisation is to help to re-generate the community and we see our young people as an integral part of that aim.

"After all, they are the future of the community and giving them the opportunity to participate in activities and decision making at an early age can equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to continue to take an active part in the future life of their village.

"We must thank all our staff, partners and sponsors who will contribute to the project and without whom our ambitions would be more difficult to realise."

Groups are available at the following times:

Tuesday

• P3-4: 3.15pm - 4.15pm
• P5-7: 4.30pm - 5.30pm
• S1-S4 Drop In: 5.45pm - 7.00pm

Wednesday

• S1-S4 Drop In: 4.00pm - 5.00pm

Thursday

• P3-4 Youth Group: 3.15pm - 4.15pm
• P5-7 Youth Group: 4.30pm - 5.30pm
• S1-S4 Drop In: 5.45pm - 7.00pm