WORKING in partnership with Berkshire Youth, Storyy Group, Wokingham Borough Council and Yes Futures, Woodley Town Council is expanding its programme of youth services.
Activities include mentoring and leadership opportunities designed to build confidence, wellbeing and life skills; part of a growing programme that reflects the Council’s commitment to helping young people stay active, feel connected to their community, develop new skills and access opportunities close to home.
Kevin Murray, Woodley Town Council Town Clerk, said: “Woodley Town Council is committed to investing in meaningful opportunities for young people across the town.
“These projects provide safe, supportive and engaging spaces where young people can build confidence, try new activities, develop skills and feel more connected to their community.”
Opportunities are delivered through the council’s youth group, holiday activities, coaching and mentoring sessions.
Friday Night Youth Club
Delivered by Berkshire Youth at Woodford Park Leisure Centre during term time, the Friday Night Youth Club offers a welcoming and supportive environment for young people in Years 8 to 10.
Activities include: dodgeball, quizzes, tabletop games, outdoor sports and team challenges, alongside discussions shaped by the interests and ideas of the young people themselves.
Holiday activities
Woodley Town Council funded the Storyy Group Diversion and Disruption Project, providing targeted holiday support for seven young Woodley residents across the October half term, Christmas holidays and February half term.
Youngsters were able to enjoy trampolining, bowling, laser quest, swimming, go-karting and creative sessions, alongside mentoring and small-group discussions on confidence, online safety, respectful behaviour, keeping safe and making positive choices.
Staff reported strong and positive engagement throughout the sessions, with schools seing growth in children’s confidence and self-esteem.
HAF programme
The Council also contributed £2,250 towards additional places for Woodley young people on Wokingham Borough Council’s Holidays, Activities and Food (HAF) programme.
The funding supported 44 young people aged 9 to 16 during the October half term and Christmas holidays, helping them access activities including Board Game Café sessions, Wild Days at Dinton Pastures, GOALS multi-sport sessions and cinema vouchers.
Families said the programme provided valuable activities during the holidays, reduced childcare pressures and gave young people the chance to spend time with friends and try something new.
Developing future leaders
A new Berkshire Youth Leadership Course for young people aged 14 to 18 will include after-school workshops focused on leadership, teamwork, volunteering, responsibility and First Aid, alongside ASDAN (Award Scheme Development and Accreditation Network) Leadership Award training.
A residential camping weekend, group challenges and outdoor activities will help young people build confidence, communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Coaching and mentoring
The council will also fund Rising Futures Woodley, a programme delivered by Yes Futures.
This will support up to 18 secondary-age young people through a structured three-month coaching and mentoring programme.
One-to-one coaching sessions will focus on recognising strengths, setting goals, overcoming challenges and building resilience, confidence and communication skills.
A ‘Play Your Part’ volunteering day and a ‘World of Work’ employer visit, will also help the young people connect with their community while exploring future education and career opportunities.
Cllr Darren Smith, Town Mayor and Chairman of the Leisure Services Committee, said: “Our young people are an important part of Woodley’s future, and it is vital that they have access to positive activities and trusted support.
“We are pleased to be working with experienced partners to provide a varied programme that responds to local needs and gives young people the chance to thrive.”
For information, visit: woodley.gov.uk
