Since forming in 2019, the Brading Community Partnership (BCP) has been at the heart of youth support in Brading, initially stepping in to save the local youth club from closure. Over the years, the charity has expanded its services significantly, now operating from the Brading Youth & Community Centre and its nearby meadow.

“Open-to-all”

BCP runs two youth clubs weekly; the Junior Youth Club (ages 8-12) on Thursdays, and the Senior Youth Club (ages 12-18, extending to 25 for those with additional needs) on Fridays.

The Youth Club is based in an historic yet well-equipped building, featuring a large playground and sports hall. They focus on creating a fun, supportive, and inclusive environment where young people can form friendships, grow in confidence, and develop new skills.

Ginny Byrne, chairman of the board of trustees of the BCP, said: “We are proud of our open-to-all policy, and warmly welcome everyone regardless of ability to access our provision and benefit from becoming part of our group.

“Currently over 80 young people attend our provisions over any given week, and we love to see them building friendships and confidence.”

A wide variety of opportunities

Each of the sessions BCP provides are carefully planned and led by a team of four part-time salaried youth workers, supported by a dedicated group of local volunteers.

Activities include a variety of sports, creative workshops, themed events, and even bell-ringing at St. Mary’s Church.

During the warmer months, outdoor programmes take place in the meadow, home to small breed farm animals, a thriving vegetable garden, and hands-on nature projects. The ‘My Plot’ edible growing scheme engages not only youth club members, but also four local schools, reaching more than 400 children. Volunteers provide hundreds of young plants, which are grown, harvested, and used in meals at school, in the youth club, or at home.

Young members actively take part in carpentry, woodland crafts, and wildlife observation, including building a bird-watching wall from reclaimed wood, and up-cycling old chairs into benches. The Summer Solstice barbecue, attended by High Sheriff, Graham Biss, is just one example of the seasonal events that celebrate community spirit.

BCP also run specialised programmes, including non-contact boxing on Tuesdays, skate-boarding proficiency and design workshops on Mondays, and the Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Award scheme, covering Bronze, Silver, and Gold levels.

As a Holiday Activities & Food scheme provider, BCP runs a successful summer programme, offering engaging activities, nutritious meals, and exciting outings for children and families needing holiday support. The scheme has even been nominated for a national award.

Commitment despite challenges

As a self-financed registered charity, BCP relies heavily on fund-raising and grants to keep its services running. Despite operating on a tight budget, the team remains committed to delivering a rewarding programme for the youth of Brading. Through its dedicated volunteers, passionate youth workers, and strong community support, Brading Community Partnership continues to be a beacon of opportunity and growth for local young people.

For more information or to support their work, visit iw.observer/bcp.