MADE4UINML2 Annual Report 20-21

With the lockdown in effect, we were not able to carry out in-person youth
work due to the government guidelines, for much of the year in question. With
restrictions still fully in place, my remit changed slightly, which allowed me to
develop more family support and to be able to go out and handle food parcels.
In one example, where a family required assistance, there were cultural
barriers, including very little English. This family was from a different country
and sometimes struggles with spoken English. We used tools such as Google
Translate and written translation methods to communicate and visit regularly.
We were able to help with filling out forms for benefits, visas and school meal
applications as well as with food parcels and practical help like providing
drawers and wardrobes.
One of our methods of engagement with young people was through an online
art and craft video. These were prerecorded by one of our sessional workers, as
"Amber's Corner". Each activity was broken down with a step by step guide,
with the activities aimed at young people. The items that would be used would
be commonplace around a household so parents would not have to buy
anything extra. Then the videos were posted on the MADE4U Facebook page.
As the restrictions lifted slightly I was able to
shift into direct 1-to-1 support and through this,
I had the opportunity to work with two young
people and provide individual focused support
and skills building. During the first few
sessions, both young people were shy and
lacked confidence, finding it very hard to talk to
others. With regular meetings, they both gained
confidence and took part in more activities.
Both had input in the activity boxes with one
also attending the Pumpkin Light Trail to help
out with registration and on walks.
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David Taylor
Youth Development Worker