There is a new addition to the team that runs Keswick Youth Club.
Rachel Philips has been appointed as a full-time rural youth worker – the first for more than 35 years.
Formerly a volunteer, Rachel’s role will be to support junior youth club members through the transition from primary school to Keswick School.
Phill Roberts, chair of Keswick Youth Centre Services (KYCS) trustees, said: “Being able to meet in a safe environment, supported by a rural youth worker, will enable our young members to make friends, join support groups and form lasting relationships, helping them to develop coping strategies and become more resilient in an ever-changing world.
“It has been many years since Keswick had an employed youth worker, and Rachel’s commitment and passion for working with our young members and her volunteer colleagues is clear for all to see.”
The appointment has been made possible due to a collaboration with the Cumbria Community Foundation and the Better Futures Fund.
Meanwhile KYCS trustees are continuing to explore all options for a permanent sustainable home, either through the development of the former Old Mill site, the purchase of a suitable premises, or a combination of both.
Youth organisations across Cumbria have been awarded almost half a million pounds to encourage more people into the youth work sector and improve access to services for young people across the county.
The funding from the Better Tomorrows programme has been invested in an accredited youth work training scheme and universal youth work services, especially in deprived and isolated areas of the county.
Better Tomorrows, a three-year programme, is managed by Cumbria Community Foundation. The grants provide accredited training to volunteers and youth workers as well as funding community organisations just setting up or providing new youth work opportunities for local people.
Nine organisations received funding to provide more youth work sessions, and all play a crucial role helping many young people to achieve their full potential.
Spearheaded by David Beeby, High Sheriff of Cumbria 2021-22 and Cumbria Community Foundation Chairman, Better Tomorrows has now raised more than £1 million and works in partnership with many local funders and supporters, including Francis C Scott Charitable Trust, the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Cumbria and the Four Acre Trust.
