A group of nine young people from across Bath and North East Somerset have refurbished Age UK B&NES’ St Michael’s day centre in Bath, as part of the Prince’s Trust Team Programme.
The programme is a 12-week personal development course provided by Bath-based Inner Flame.
The course aims to give 16 to 25-year-olds a chance to work in their communities, providing work experience, qualifications and practical skills.
The nine young people and their tutor spent 10 days working at St Michael’s and have painted the two main rooms, the hallway and toilets.
They have also cleaned the outside decking area and put new compost and plants in place.
On Thursday 3rd March, they visited the day centre to have lunch with some of the older people who attend along with Age UK B&NES staff and volunteers.
Janet Dabbs, chief executive of Age UK B&NES, said: “These young people have worked very hard to help improve our day centre; we’re very grateful for their time and efforts and I’d like to say thank you.
“I was very moved by the personal development I saw in these young people, through their involvement with the older members of the day centre.
“They gained confidence in talking to older people and vice versa – both the young people and the older people really benefitted from the experience.”
Team leader, Rob Swindells, from Inner Flame, said: “It’s been great to see young people on the course giving something back to the local community, always showing willingness to make a difference, not only to their selves, but to others.”
Comments from the young people who took part include:
“I feel like the people that use this centre have worked hard through their lives and deserve a nice place to come.”
“Doing something for the community makes me feel like I am part of the community.”
“This project has given me a change in attitude and allowed me to talk to people that I wouldn’t usually.”
Up to 70 people attend day centre sessions, which are aimed at older people who are socially isolated and vulnerable, at St Michaels’s every week.
Age UK B&NES provides activities, hot lunch, refreshments, entertainment and a place to make friends.
Age UK B&NES also runs a range of other activities at St Michael’s including a Lunch Club, Art Group, Click Café (IT sessions) and toenail clinic.
To find out more call 01225 466135 or visit www.ageukbanes.co.uk.
