Phoenix detached youth project has always valued and delivered social action projects based on the needs of the community, as identified by young people. Recently, as a group of young people we decided to ‘rebrand’ the social action part of the PDYP’s work and as a result of this came up with an acronym to better reflect our purpose hence the new name, ‘I.N.I.T.I.A.T.E ‘ – Include, Now, Involved, Together, Intergen, Accessible, Trust, Everyone.
Since January, we have worked together to deliver a range of social action projects and have also set up a TikTok account to promote the work of PDYP and reach a wider demographic. During this time, as young people, we have got to meet new people and we have developed skills in teamwork, confidence, planning, organising and networking.
In recent months we have organised several activities to benefit the wider community. One was a ‘trip down memory lane’ afternoon tea for residents of Chirton Lodge, where as well as an afternoon tea prepared by us we initiated meaningful intergenerational conversations with residents to discuss topics such as, “What would you tell your younger self?”, “What was your favourite age to be?” and “What is positive about being the age you are now?” Some of the answers surprised us such as keeping themselves fitter when they were younger and not caring as much about what other people thought of them. As part of the session, we made each of the residents a photo frame as a memento.
Our next project was a ‘random act of kindness’ session in North Shields. We made up bunches of flowers and also purchased biscuits and chocolates to give out to members of the public. It was a very rewarding experience for us as young people as everyone we offered something to was pleasantly surprised and grateful. Some people thought there had to be a catch, or offered to pay, some even tried to turn down the gift as they felt there were others more deserving than them. It was fantastic to see the benefit it had on the recipients as well as giving us a sense of pride and fulfilment.
Previous social action projects delivered by PDYP ambassadors have included: welfare packs for people experiencing homelessness, a ‘not so secret santa’ gift scheme and Easter egg hunts.
Newcastle Lads
Over the past three years, our group, The Newcastle Lads has grown into much more than a casual youth group. What started as a place to meet, socialise and try new activities with friends has become a group that steps up to support others, challenge ourselves and create opportunities for us and their wider community.
Throughout the journey, we’ve taken part in activity sessions, residentials, volunteering opportunities and social action projects. Along the way, we’ve built confidence, formed lasting friendships and developed a real sense of ownership over what we want to achieve.
One of our biggest successes this year came when we raised £500 through The Key. We developed the project, pitched our ideas and secured the funding ourselves. The money enabled us to organise a fantastic trip to Flamingo Land, allowing us to take not only ourselves but also several friends who otherwise may not have been able to attend. This was a great way to shake off the post-GCSE stress.
Giving back has also been a huge part of our journey. Earlier this year, several of us volunteered alongside Phoenix Detached Youth Project at High Borrans Outdoor Education Centre in the Lake District. Rather than just enjoying the outdoors, we spent our time renovating and improving the centre. One unforgettable moment saw one of us waist deep in an icy pond, wearing a wetsuit while helping clear an old jetty. It was freezing, muddy and hard work, but everyone got stuck in.
We’ve also used social action funding to make a difference closer to home. After shopping at Tesco on Norham Road and Poundland and putting the call out for donations, we created care packages for people sleeping rough before travelling into Newcastle city centre to hand them out. Spending time talking and listening to people’s experiences of homelessness was one of the most powerful things we’ve done together, challenging assumptions and helping us better understand the difficulties many people face.
We have also recently been interviewed by the bbc to talk about the positive things that happen in meadow well
Looking back over the past three years, we’re incredibly proud of everything we’ve achieved. From fundraising and volunteering to helping others and creating opportunities for us and our friends, we’ve shown what young people can do when they’re trusted, supported and given the chance to lead. We can’t wait to see what the next chapter brings.
For further information on the PDYP, please visit www.pdyp.org
