CEO’s Thoughts (July Newsletter)

28 July 2022

Welcome to our July newsletter!

As we enter the summer holidays, it’s an exciting time for all of those at Berkshire Youth. We are seeing the end of some programmes as they take a break for the summer as well as the start of our programmes that support young people throughout the summer holidays. This summer in particular we are supporting programmes at our centres at Waterside, Britwell and The Wayz, and working in partnership in Thatcham to make sure there are activities available for the most vulnerable young people in our communities.

We started the summer period with some celebrations. We were delighted to welcome Floyd Steadman to celebrate with the Boxwise participants; sharing his story and inspiring young people about how to overcome challenges and adversity they may face.

We kicked off the summer season with our music night at Waterside Centre, in partnership with Berkshire Maestros. We are delighted to be Berkshire Maestros’ partner for their charity single which has been written, performed and produced with young people. You can listen download or stream it here.

We welcome to our team two new members of staff: Karen, who is taking on our training and volunteer development, and Lorraine who is supporting the Waterside Centre administration team. We also welcome back Paige from maternity leave, who is already planning for new programmes in Bracknell from September. Berkshire Youth is delighted that our projects and programmes are continuing to grow. As such we have vacancies to join the team in a variety of roles. Please take a look and chat with us about how you can pay a part in supporting empowering and inspiring young people in Berkshire.

We must also take a moment to reflect and thank the volunteers who give so much time across the year, and this summer will be no different. We also must pass on our thanks to Pangbourne Youth FC for raising over £1,400 for us this season. We’re delighted that Tom Holmes, our Charity Ambassador, is staying with Reading FC for a further three years as Vice Captain. We thank him for his support and we are excited for the new opportunities we can develop together over the coming three years.

While over the summer many young people will be enjoying the activities, the team here at Berkshire Youth will be continuing to work with partners and funders to explore new opportunities and ways of working collaboratively to ensure better outcomes for young people. In a time of financial difficulty and political uncertainty, it is essential now more than ever that young people are surrounded by positive role models, trusted adults and a space where they feel they can belong. Berkshire Youth is committed to ensuring this opportunity for young people across the Royal County.

We hope you manage to enjoy the summer holidays and find some time for some rest and relaxation. We look forward to updating you on new developments as they progress over the summer.

David