North Devon

North Devon Network Summary

Thanks to Pete’s Dragons, Torri Youth and Space Youth Services for attending.

Participation was low due to several other forums being active in North Devon and many people are unable to attend multiple meetings.

We discussed:

• Pete’s Dragons still have sessions of  suicide bereavement, prevention and awareness training available to anyone who needs them- https://www.petesdragons.org.uk/training

• Torri Youth have run a six-week sports project at Torrington School that is nearly fully subscribed with 10 young participants. They received funding from the Police Crime Commissioner for Devon and Cornwall for the project and outreach work, which led to a visit from the Commissioner, the mayor, and local law enforcement to see their work firsthand.

• Torrey Youth will be participating in the Rotary Youth Challenge again this year, building on the success of their efforts last year.

• A young volunteer training program is being proposed by Space that will help older young people remain involved in clubs and activities whilst being rewarded and upskilled. 

• Torri Youth ran a raffle to support Super Shoes UK, which decorates shoes for children with cancer. Paula shared that they purchased candy floss and popcorn machines, as well as candle-making supplies, and are planning a practice session during half-term to learn how to use the equipment and ensure food hygiene compliance.

We resolved to:

• Provide further details of Barnstable Youth Network to those who need it

• Support any efforts to establish a local network in Torrington

After positive feedback from a number of organisations we will discuss safeguarding trends, challenges and questions at all our future network meetings.

Details of a new online training course for volunteers, organised by the Space Community Team, will be published here as soon as dates are set.