Homeless Young People and Care Leavers Gain Life-Changing Experience in Gran Canaria
ALABARÉ has partnered with Eat That Frog CIC to provide a unique international learning opportunity for underprivileged young people aged 18–25.
ALABARÉ has partnered with Eat That Frog CIC to provide a unique international learning opportunity for underprivileged young people aged 18–25, as part of the UK Government’s Turing Scheme.
The trip to Gran Canaria saw five young people from Hampshire and Wiltshire take part in a programme designed to build their confidence, independence, communication skills and personal resilience, while experiencing a new culture and environment.
Funded through the Government’s Turing Scheme, the 10-day trip was the culmination of a 3-month-long scheme that has provided previously homeless young people and care leavers with the opportunity to grow, connect and thrive.
For many of the youngsters taking part from ALABARÉ services based in Andover, Trowbridge, Chippenham and Devizes, it was their first trip abroad.
In addition to their travel experience, it has helped them grow into adulthood and set them on the path to living free from homelessness.
What did the young people do on the trip?
Throughout the 10 days, the group captured key moments of learning, challenge and achievement.
Elements of the trip included snorkelling, visiting the sand dunes, an aloe vera farm, the world’s largest aquarium, theme parks and waterparks, as well as local shopping, beach days and cooking for each other.
In preparation, participants also took part in training and development courses and had to display a level of commitment and exemplary engagement and behaviour within ALABARÉ’s supported living accommodation as part of a selection process.
The trip ended with the group being awarded Entry Level 3 qualifications in Personal Development to support their future employability and journeys towards independence.
The young people were also asked to track their mental and physical wellbeing, with significant results recorded.
83% of the participants on the project reported having moderate to high wellbeing following the visit, with a mean score increase of 4.2 points, using the nationally recognised SWEMWBS (Shorter Warwick Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale) criteria.
A rise of at least 3 points is considered a substantial, meaningful and positive change in attitudes and wellbeing, showing real progression towards a young person’s journey towards independent living.
Gemma Snell, ALABARÉ’s Inclusion and Wellbeing Lead, said:
“This opportunity is about much more than visiting a new place. It is about giving young people who have had a rough start to life the chance to challenge themselves, build confidence, develop new skills and create lasting memories.
“It’s been incredible to see our young people move out of their comfort zones, trying new foods and embracing the culture. I was really impressed by their Spanish language skills and their willingness to give it a go!
“We are incredibly grateful to Eat That Frog CIC and the Turing Scheme for making this experience possible and for investing in the potential of young people.”
A few members of the group have explained their feelings about the trip.
Ben, Daneah, and Rhys said:
“It’s had a massive impact for me. I just wanted to take this opportunity to say thank you.”
“It’s taken me out of my comfort zone; it’s been a chance to have a break and come back with a clear mind.”
“It’s been a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn the culture of a different country, and a nice relax away from all the stress at home.”
Kate Dorling, Senior Leader at Eat That Frog CIC, said:
“The Turing Scheme exists to open doors and broaden horizons. By working together with organisations like ALABARÉ, we are helping young people gain experiences that can have a lasting impact on their personal development, wellbeing and future opportunities.
“It’s been a privilege to have the group with us; we’re proud of their enthusiasm and engagement, and we look forward to continuing this partnership into the future.”
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