Walsall youth service sends hundreds of activity packs to youngsters

Youth Connect, one of three youth work partners that form the Walsall Youth in Unity Project, delivered the packs across the borough to address boredom and isolation of young people.

The packs, which are designed to be age appropriate, contain Youth Connect’s Covid-19 information booklet, colouring in worksheets, smartphone pop sockets, pens and stationery, gliders, kites, bubbles, a gardening activity pack, make it yourself games, arts and crafts packs.

Rizwan Ahmed, director at Youth Connect, said: “Young people spoke to us about some of the issues they were having at home, including lack of resources, information and general boredom.

"The project was initially to support 80 young people, but currently we have supported over 650 thanks to the support of Walsall Housing Group and Walsall for All.”

Coronavirus has had an impact on the services offered by Youth Connect.

Rizwan added: “The initial novelty of being off from school or college has worn off and young people are yearning for some form of normality.

"There have been many difficulties young people and their families have faced during the pandemic, be it issues around home schooling, people struggling with isolation, financial issues, anxiety and mental health.

“Young people's reaction has been amazing. People are often touched by the kindness of others. It’s great to witness so many positive reactions to work we are doing.”

Councillor Garry Perry, portfolio holder for culture and communities, said: “I was glad I was able to play a small part in supporting this initiative by packing and delivering a few of the activity packs.

"The young people were genuinely appreciative they were being thought of and as we reset the future post-lockdown connectivity will be the key to mindfulness and wellbeing.”