Summer is always the highlight of the youth club’s year, week after week of fun activities and quality time, building on our relationships with young people. Nevermore so than on our annual summer camp, which was our biggest ever last year. After testing for covid at our base in Islington, we set off in the minibus for the New Forest for five days (four nights) of camping in the countryside. Activities included favourites like climbing and going to the beach and two hikes! A particular highlight was our group of young people encountered a herd of cows while out on a moonlit stroll. We’re still not sure who is more bamboozled by the presence of the other, and this is still talked about in the youth club.

It’s lovely to witness young people growing as a group, being more engaged and supporting each other. Residentials like this bring so much value to young people’s lives; everyone puts a lot into getting the most out of these opportunities. But it’s while on these activities that the staff, who support young people, get to find out what’s happening in their lives. This is especially true for young people facing challenges, whose stories are often shared discreetly in the campfire’s amber glow and ambient crackle. Being miles from home and sitting among friends and trusted adults seems to provide a safe space where young people reflect and be honest with each other and themselves.

It was a welcome break from the city, a rare opportunity amongst the covid restrictions to get away for everyone, including the staff. Last year, we did several residentials, including one for 14+ years focused on leadership skills. Next year we hope to provide many more opportunities for young people to experience nights away with the youth club.