A remarkable piece of community work took place in the King George V Park, Melksham, this week following a meeting with the Amber Foundation, local resident Alan McFall, chairman of Melksham Family of Churches, Claire Harris (deputy town clerk) and Adrienne Westbrook (Mayor of Melksham).
Amber offers a fresh start for homeless, unemployed young people aged 17-30. At three residential centres in Devon, Wiltshire and Surrey, they work with around 200 young people each year for an average of six months.
Offering a temporary, safe place to live, in a community of around 30 peers, they deliver a structured blend of support, training, new experience and opportunity that encourages young people to move forward positively.
Many of the residents are ex-offenders or recovering from substance misuse or mental health problems, so they work closely with a wide range of statutory and voluntary agencies to ensure they have a bespoke, practical programme of activities that addresses their individual needs and focuses on their strengths and aspirations.
Ultimately, aiming to inspire each individual to find the self-belief and determination to take responsibility for their life, achieve their key goals and move on to employment or further training and safe, sustainable accommodation.
Conversations had taken place a short while back regarding the possibility of a small supervised group being able to help in a community initiative to tidy up the Millennium community Mosaic in the King George V Playing Field, Melksham.
Turning this idea into reality, Amber set off this week and spent two days transforming this area for public and community benefit. Agreement has also been given for Amber to now maintain this site on a regular basis.
Barbara Bewley, centre manager at the Amber Foundation said, “What a great example of seeing our young people give something back to the community and contributing to something that so many people will benefit from. This type of interaction within the community has so many benefits and really helps boost confidence with our young people. It opens up new opportunities, provides new interests and develops different skills. We are delighted to help and very happy to be involved.”
Further details about the Amber Foundation can be directed to Barbara Bewley, centre manager, The Amber Foundation on barbara.bewley@amberweb.org or direct telephone on 01225 759902
