As you would have seen from our latest achievements post, we spoke about StEP ; the community outreach charity at the Church Hall, St. Edward’s, Mottingham

StEP are a charity which Ada & Albert have been working closely with, particularly for their newly launched #Kidspace programme for 11 - 14 year olds. It is an amazing charity providing both activities and support for children in our borough. #Kidspace is staffed by 3 experienced youth workers and volunteers, one of whom is an experienced youth counsellor. They provide welcoming, active sessions and value the views of the children and young people that attend and those views drive the programme of activities.

Images: StEP Volunteers hosting an inter-generational event

StEP have been keeping in touch with all its youth groups during the recent difficult times and is now offering a weekly virtual youth session each Thursday until they are able to return to the church hall.

The younger children at #Kidspace will be moving from primary to secondary school in September and the experienced youth workers and volunteers are trained to deal with anxieties about their new school, friendships, fear of bullying, travel and their confidence. Some children are anxious about other things and the #Kidspace staff listen and give support.

StEP’s work gives children a support system both from staff and peers, helps them build new friendships and build skills to help them break free from their worries - a value that Ada & Albert strongly believe strengthens children's chances of brighter futures.

StEP’s youth provision has the objective of helping children and young people aged , 8 - 18. They know that difficulties can arise at any time and they are always on hand to offer support where they can.

What type of programmes do StEP offer?

• Mini Eds: School Years 4,5,6

• Kids Space: School Years 6, 7 - 8

• Youth Cafe: School Years 9+

 Images: Youth Cafe members hosting an Inter-generational Afternoon Tea

The format of these programmes is activity based; involving generic activities such as table tennis, pool and arts and crafts. Young people can also build skills such as improved communication, cooking, self care, budgeting, preparing C.V’s and interview support.

The programmes can also provide an emotional outlet, purposefully incorporating creative skills, which can help young people communicate views, feelings and difficulties they may be experiencing.

The experienced staff help young people identify challenges, provide support and help them build resilience to cope with their difficulties.

StEP welcomes feedback from children, young people and their parents/carers. Many have reported increased self-confidence and self-esteem, increased support from their peers, new friendships and less anxiety.

Children and Young People have identified issues across the age ranges:

• Bullying
• Family relationships
• Overcrowded or difficult living conditions
• Lack of money
• Changes: e. g. Parents’ separation/relationship difficulties, moving or relocating to another area
• Difficulties settling into school - particularly the transition to senior school

With the social and economic difficulties of Covid-19, issues are expected to increase – some young people are experiencing bereavement and anxiety around Covid-19 and the effects on them and their family. StEP anticipates the need for support will increase too.

That is how you can help!

There are several ways that you can show support to the charity.

Here's a little breakdown:

• Promote their work wherever you can - whether that be sharing their programmes with a child who may benefit or spreading the word to your family and friends. Every little helps and the power of words has the biggest impact!

• Offering a skill that may help the charity. If you're a counsellor, PR expert or wellness professional looking to volunteer your time, StEP would love to hear from you.

• Monetary donations - Ada & Albert recently raised funds to issue a grant to StEP's #Kidspace programme and you can donate directly to Ada & Albert if you would like to support this project.

Without the incredible work that StEP provide, more children in our community would struggle to cope and remain in a cycle that a lot of us are fortunate not to experience.

If you'd like to get involved with StEP then email Charlotte at Ada & Albert who can put you in direct contact with them.

 Email: charlotte@adaandalbert.co.uk

Ada & Albert x