STEER CEO, Tracy Mills said:
“The project enabled us to support vulnerable young people who otherwise would have been isolated and lonely. They loved the physical challenges and being in the outdoors. Over the weeks, some of the less able were all running around and laughing and all fed back that they felt healthier and fitter within themselves.
“They also said that they were not reaching for their phone and had different things
to talk about. The Green Gym also helped them through the stresses of exams, providing a release of tension by having a good work out in such a great outdoor space.
“Some young people living with Autism, told us how they felt stronger to interact with others and the supportive activities really helped them slowly to build up confidence and increased their self-esteem.
“We also received a large amount of referrals from specialist support services in Bridgend. Funding enables us to support vulnerable young people who otherwise would have been isolated and lonely. We know the project improved wellbeing as all the young people, parents and the support services had great pleasure in telling us the difference the project made to them.
“The funding allowed us to deliver bespoke sessions to support individual needs and put us on the map to increase our capacity to deliver more outdoor activities.
“We were able to purchase much needed equipment to provide a greater activity base. Qualifications were also achieved which supported a positive progression for the young people.