New funding for YMCA youth work in Kirkcaldy to help hard to reach youngsters

The funding has enabled Kirkcaldy YMCA, working with Fife Council and other local youth work providers, to deliver additional detached youth work sessions and activities aimed at engaging hard-to-reach young people in their own communities throughout the summer holidays and beyond.

The programme got underway at the start of the school holidays with a successful community fun day at Templehall Hub.

It brought together local families and young people for a day of activities and community engagement.

This was followed by a creative graffiti and DJing workshop at YMCA's Gallatown Hub, giving young people the opportunity to develop new skills and express themselves in a positive environment.

Last week, young people came together for a community barbecue at Seafield Beach, providing a relaxed setting to build relationships and encourage participation.

Further activities are planned over the coming weeks, including a sports-themed session in Dysart on July 31, and an event at The Toll Centre in Burntisland on August 7.

Fiona Sword, chief executive of Kirkcaldy YMCA, said: "We are absolutely delighted to have secured this substantial three-year CashBack for Communities grant. It is a real vote of confidence in the work that Kirkcaldy YMCA has been delivering with young people for many years.

“We are grateful that our experience, commitment and track record have been recognised, and that we have been trusted to deliver this important programme alongside our partners.

“This funding allows us to extend our reach and engage with even more young people who may not traditionally access services, helping them build confidence, skills and positive connections within their communities."

The CashBack for Communities programme reinvests funds recovered through the Proceeds of Crime Act into projects that create positive opportunities for children and young people across Scotland.

Shuggy Hughes, programme and funding manager, added: “The programme has been a tremendous success so far this summer.

“The number of young people attending sessions has been phenomenal, and we've seen excellent engagement wherever we've gone. Whether it's creative activities, community events or simply being present in local neighbourhoods, young people are responding positively and building relationships with youth workers and each other.

“We're excited to continue delivering activities throughout the summer and over the next three years as this funding enables us to make an even bigger impact."

Through close partnership working with Fife Council and local youth clubs, Kirkcaldy YMCA hopes the programme will continue to provide positive opportunities for young people, strengthen community connections and support those who may face barriers to participation.

For more information about Kirkcaldy YMCA’s youth work activities across the summer and throughout the year visit: www.facebook.com/kirkcaldy.ymca