Many young people are ready to crash into the summer holidays; exhausted by the long school year they have just been through.

They look forward to the break with much anticipation of exciting things to come like trips overseas, camps and festivals or visiting friends & family.

However, for some young people, the long summer break brings trepidation. Long days with nothing to do, no one for company with their parents out at work, and not enough money for the big days out.

For others there is conflict at home and the risk of  traumatisation increases.

This boredom can lead to young people trying risky behaviour or falling on negative coping mechanisms.

This is why unlike some services, may of The Door’s youth clubs do not close for the summer, in fact our provision ramps up. We keep our sessions open so that young people regularly have something to look forward to, to see their friends in a safe space and get support from youthworkers.

In addition, we have planned several exciting trips away to elevate their holiday experience and give opportunities to those who wouldn’t ordinarily have them. For example, last year we took a coach to Barry Island and one young person told us that it was their main holiday for the summer. Whilst that is heartbreaking to hear, it was a privilege to share this special time with them too.

For the illuminate team, the summer is often a time of pilgrimage. This year is no different as we are taking a group of 13 young people to the Christian youth festival, Satellites. The experience they will have there will be life-giving and transformative for their faith, allowing them freedom to explore their spirituality without judgement and give them a renewed vigour to serve God in their communities when they return in the new term.

Full summer timetables are now available at thedoor.org.uk/summer – all youth club sessions are free and open to all young people aged 11-17.

Youthwork Manager Chris