Volunteer News
JOB OPENING - SHORT-TERM NETWORK CO-ORDINATOR / DEVELOPER
To follow on the excellent work begun by Claire in the Highlands (see the update in our latest newsletter), we require a Short-term Netwrok Co-ordinator / Developer from mid-August, 2010.
For details and how to apply for this position, use the following links:
Short-term Network Co-ordinator / Developer Job Advert
Short-term Network Co-ordinator / Developer Job Description
Short-term Network Co-ordinator / Developer Person Specification
Short-term Network Co-ordinator / Developer Application Form
SYNOPSIS OF AGM PRESENTATION
The following is a summary of the points raised during the presentation made at the Reality AGM 11th March 2010 byPeter Crory, the National General Secretary of YMCA Scotland.
Peter introduced his subject by stating that simple research through Google has resulted in nothing positive being said about young men in Scotland (eg twice as likely to commit suicide that young women). He commented on :
- the report he had led in 2008 entitled ‘Young men in Scotland’ and the different perceptions of those involved, which form the basis of this talk.
- the history of the YMCA in their support of the years for young men and then challenge give by Chris Dunning of the Rank Foundation.
- the relationship he had with a couple of young men and the opportunities each had either been offered or not through the YMCA through a mentoring project and their different outcomes.
- the present savings cuts in youth services in comparison to the future magnified costs that would accrue without these services
- the present change in strategy of Youth Justice from prevention and early intervention, with the resultant increase in costs eg £6000 pm to keep an offender in a Secure Unit
- the question of who is going to respond to the needs of young men in the light of the present-day wholesale shrinkage of support eg through social work becoming an emergency only service, CLD cuts, Lloyds TSB funding stopping
- this pointed to a new approach to work with young men where no further research was needed, to simply get alongside them by individual key workers / mentors (from as early as P5/6 up to S3/4)
- the need to ‘journey’ with them, to create positive relationships with them over a longer period;
- that Christians should / could be recruited to assist them to recognise that they could meaningfully and practically participate in their communities (and noted the Assets programme)
- that we should value them as GOD does and we do ourselves
- that 8/15 is the key age range – just as Reality does.
INTRODUCING OUR HIGHLANDS WORKER
Claire Nias is our new Highlands worker. She who is married to Andy, is a part-time Bank Community Nurse, ex-youth worker with the YMCA and has done time (so to speak) in the office and house team at Nethybridge. Claire owns a small dog, has a host of relevant strengths and experiences and a weakness for Mackies Vanilla ice cream and she loves being outdoors.
Claire’s appointment is only part-time and initially for 6 months so it’s a big ask : she will
- coordinate and develop contacts which have been started with a wide range of local agencies, individuals, public services and voluntary groups in the Highlands;
- establish a cohort of 15 Reality volunteers to participate and develop Reality work with young people, being referred to us by social workers. They have social communication and inter-action difficulties. Claire will therefore be involved with all aspects of providing residential weekends away for them – and it may well involve you!
.
WE ARE ON YouTube
Have a look at some of the promotional videos we have made on YouTube. These are designed for young people, volunteers, social workers and supporters. More content coming soon.
Our first video, Reality Weekends - 2010 is live now. Check it out at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aqvd94cLkn0
WEEKEND CAMPS - VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR 2010
Our remaining dates for 2010 camps are as follows:
Sept 24-26 (Nethybridge Highlands Project - near Aviemore)
Oct 8-10 (Compass Christian Centre, Glenshee)
Oct 15-17 (Compass Christian Centre, Glenshee)
Oct 29-31 (Compass Christian Centre, Glenshee)
Nov 12-14 (Compass Christian Centre, Glenshee)
Dec 10-12 (Compass Christian Centre, Glenshee)
Please note these dates may change without notice and additional dates may be added. Contact our office to confirm dates.
EASTER FALCON CAMP REPORT
The report on last year's successful Easter Camp, run in association with CPAS Falcon is available through the link: Easter camp report 2009