Children In Need

BBC Children in Need has provided funding for the Mount Wise Youth and Community Project in Plymouth for the past five years.

Based at the Welcome Hall in Devonport, the project helps disadvantaged and vulnerable young people aged 11-16. 

Groups of eight pupils at a time are taken out of school to attend a ten week programme of personal development to gain a nationally recognised accredited award. 

"It gives young people a sense of belonging and confidence," explained Mount Wise youth worker Natalie Griffin.

Katie & Michaela enjoying a game of table football

"If it wasn't for the money we get from Children in Need, they wouldn't get the opportunities that they have. It gives them a fighting chance for a better start in life."

While there, the youngsters work on reading and writing skills and take part in activities such as rock climbing and surfing to help improve their self esteem.

Michaela, 12, said: "I was quite worried about starting and all the workers here helped me through it."

As well as going on trips to the local bowling alley and pizza restaurants, her favourite part of the course was a residential trip to Butlins.

"It was scary being away from home for the first time. I thought I would be crying and worried about missing my mum.

"I'm proud and happy that I can do it on my own now. I'm more confident and I can speak to people, whereas before I was shy."

Natalie helping Ryan with IT skills

Katie, 12, another of the youngsters taking part in the Mount Wise scheme, says it has made a big impact on her life.

"I got picked on a lot. I felt really sad and it really made me feel that I didn't want to come to school.

"The bullies are now some of my good friends since we were having to work together. I think it got through to them that they're going to be with me for ten weeks - might as well become friends and be nice to me."

The project is helping 12-year-old Ryan follow his dream. He says his behaviour has improved a lot with help from the youth workers and he's no longer in trouble as much.

"When I'm older, I want to be in the navy. I have been planning it for ages, since I was five."