A celebration event was held for young people who attend the Inspire groups through Ceredigion Youth Service.
It was an opportunity to recognise their achievement of completing an outdoor first aid qualification and attending an 8-week outdoor skills programme this spring.
Those who have taken part have successfully achieved their Level 3 Qualification in Outdoor First Aid as well as learning bushcraft and paddling skills on site at Llandysul Paddlers.
Bethan Logan from the outdoor partnership who facilitated the project said: “Completing the programme has taken commitment and dedication and those engaged have come away with skills to set them up for their onward journey, whether that involves paddling a kayak, looking after themselves and others in remote locations or working together and communicating well as a team. We wish them all the best with their future endeavours and hope that the outdoors continues to be a place for them to excel and thrive”.
The experiences gained over the 8 weeks has helped 17 young people gain confidence in first aid skills, try new outdoor experiences and have social and outdoor educational experiences.
James Barnes, one of the participants with his picture attached, said: “It’s been a really enjoyable 6 weeks. I have enjoyed Llandysul paddlers and going down the river. I also enjoyed brushing up on my first aid and feel a lot more comfortable if I ever had to use a defibrillator”.
David Jones, a team manager in the youth service highlighted that “Inspire is a grant funded project, delivered by the youth service for more than 10 years. A key aspect is partnership working and providing opportunities for young people to socialise, gain skills and support their goals and aspirations. Well done to all the young people who attended”.
Councillor Keith Evans, Chairman of Ceredigion County Council and Elected Member for South Llandysul, said: “The skills and resilience that young people develop while learning in the outdoors are valuable towards moving forward into the world of work and first aid is a skill that can be a benefit to all in our community, well done to all who completed the qualification”.
This project was made possible through Moondance Foundation funding received by the Outdoor Partnership who worked with Ceredigion Youth Service and Llandysul Paddlers to run a successful project.
If you are between 16 and 25 and are interested in developing life skills, work ready skills, meeting new people and trying new things contact [email protected]; for more information.