‘Beyond’ activity programme to inspire more young people

Young people can join free activities in schools and venues across the town, helping them build important life-skills and inspiring them to play a positive role in their community.

After school sessions started on January 20 and continue Tuesdays to Fridays from 3pm to 8pm for 10 weeks, with the exception of February half term.

Young people can unleash their inner Bukayo Saka or Chloe Kelly and practice their skills in street football.

Other activities on offer include: dodgeball, table tennis, pool, dance, and more, meaning there is something for everyone, whatever their interests.

They will also have the chance to join the national Go Lead award, helping them to build their confidence and leadership skills.

See the 'Beyond' activity programme on the council website to stay up to date.

As well as the community events, the county council has teamed up with Louth Academy and King Edward’s Grammar School to launch a six-week programme for students aged 12 to 14.

A three-week programme will also be offered to Year 6 classes at all the town’s primary schools.

The sessions use scenario-based activities to help students reflect on how their decisions may affect others in the community, while building emotional resilience, self-awareness, communication, and problem-solving skills.

One activity sees the pupils take on the role of a town council. As they take turns in a Monopoly-style game they must choose to allocate their budget on services like education, crime, and managing green spaces. These decisions affect their ability to respond to incidences of anti-social behaviour and the impact they can have on the community.

The programme will build on the successes of ‘Beyond’ in Gainsborough, where it proved a big hit with young people, parents, and residents alike.

Between September and December last year almost 500 young people took part in the school and community activities.

The programme’s positive impact was also felt beyond the school gates and sports fields.

Coun Alex McGonigle, executive councillor for community safety at Lincolnshire County Council, said: “This programme is all about using the power of positive activities to bring people together and encouraging our young people to take pride in their communities, all while having fun.

“After the brilliant feedback we’ve received in Gainsborough, it’s next stop Louth! If you have teenagers aged between 9 and 18, please do seek out these fantastic free activities on your doorstep.”

To find out more about when and where the activities are taking place be sure to follow the Safer Lincolnshire Facebook and X accounts, and follow the council’s website: https://www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/directory-record/94580/louth-sports-programme.

They are working closely with local partners, including Lincolnshire’s district councils, Lincolnshire Police, youth groups, local businesses, and voluntary and charitable organisations, to bring more positive activities to inspire young people and build stronger communities.

If you could offer further opportunities for children and young people within your local community and would like to get involved, email: [email protected].