In the photo:
Some of the Amazing Futures Project peer supporters at Amaze who volunteer at group sessions and offer 1:1’s supporting young people with SEND and project coordinator Claire Piper. These inspiring young people make the project a positive and happy experience where everyone feels comfortable and can be themselves.
What did your volunteers do?
The Amazing Futures peer supporters are all aged 18-25 and most have lived experiences as young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
They all train to be peer supporters offering their time, experience, skills and support to young people who attend groups.
They volunteer in the various weekly groups, helping young people to discuss any issues they may face in their transition to adulthood or run activities and games like Uno, prepare snacks, lead group walks along the seafront, encourage group participation in focus groups, chat on the WhatsApp group as well as offering 1:1 support when needed.
How did your volunteers make a difference?
In the past year they have supported young people with SEND whilst facing considerable personal challenges due to the huge impact of Covid on their lives.
They have continued to volunteer throughout all the lockdowns; on picnics, indoor group settings, on group walks and personally keeping in touch with the group members. Some ran zoom activities like the popular quiz nights whilst others lead walks along the seafront.
They have adjusted and adapted in order to continue to help young people, encouraging life-skills, boosting confidence and empowering young people to contribute to their local community in Eastbourne and Bexhill.
