Cestria funds youth project activity trip

Published by Kelly Elliott for Cestria Community Housing in Housing and also in Communities

Youngsters from a Chester-le-Street youth club have taken part in an outdoor activity residential after a local housing association donated £500 towards the cost of the trip.

Pelton Community Association’s Room 14 youth project turned to Cestria Community Housing to help fund the cost of the three-day visit to the Dukeshouse Wood activity centre, near Hexham.

And thanks to a grant from Cestria’s Community Benefits Fund, which helps groups, individuals and organisations which make a difference to their community, the group of 15 teenagers had the time of their lives.

The young people, all aged between 13 and 16, took part in a range of outdoor activities such as quad-biking, climbing, abseiling and a high rope course, all designed to improve their communication skills, confidence and team work.

The Room 14 project works with young people from the local community, with the diversionary activities run by the youth workers steering youngsters away from anti-social behavior, as well as helping them develop a sense of worth and belonging.

Thomas Jones, youth worker at Room 14 said: “It’s quite simple, the trip couldn’t have gone ahead without this financial support from Cestria.

“Room 14 is all about giving these young people the chance to enjoy life changing educational, training and leisure activities.

“A stay at a place like Dukeshouse Wood is the highlight of the year for us – it has such a positive impact on the young people and makes a real difference to their self-confidence and ability to work together and achieve their goals.”

Cestria’s head of corporate services Christine Scott said: “Room 14 is a fantastic project which we’re delighted to support.

“Trips away to outdoor activity centres such as Dukeshouse Wood are great fun for the young people taking part and they can also help build confidence and self esteem. We’re pleased the group from Room 14 has such a great time.”

In addition to the money donated by Cestria, the youngsters taking part in the trip raised funds by taking part in sponsored activities.

For more information about the Cestria Community Benefits Fund, including how to apply, please visit www.cestria.org or call 0191 385 1900.