Future Generations Commissioner Sophie Howe celebrated the achievements of more than 1,300 young parents across Wales, who have transformed their lives after taking part in nine lottery funded projects, at an event sponsored by Siân Gwenllian AM on Wednesday 14th December at the Pierhead, Cardiff Bay.
The ‘Bright New Futures’ funding from the Big Lottery Fund was released in 2013 with an aim to equip young parents across Wales with greater confidence, life skills, and the knowledge they needed to tackle challenges and create a brighter future for them and their children.
Nine projects involving 15 charities offered a range of support and activities for young parents, from one to one support and counselling, to volunteering opportunities and family events. The results have been impressive: 1,100 of the young parents who took part said they felt less isolated and that they had made new friendships, while 900 said they had greater confidence and skills as a result of the project.
Sam Howells, Charter Housing’s Regeneration Manager and co-ordinator of the ‘Growing Together’ single parent project which was awarded £955,662.00 Big Lottery Funding said
“The battles young parents face can be very diverse and many fear being perceived as negative, with many young parents often struggling to find a place where they feel they belong”.
“Without a supportive environment where young parents can flourish, such negative barriers can have far wider implication that can ripple through subsequent generations.
She added “All of the nine projects work with young parents in a unique way providing them with the necessary tools upon which solid life foundations can be built, helping to build a more positive and bright future for the 1300 families involved!”
Danielle Parry (a young parent from the Aspire project), took part in the scheme after childbirth complications left her suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder and anxiety. She struggled to leave the house and to have the relationship she wanted with her son:
“The future now looks good. I still have my own battles in my head, my up and down days, but I now know this isn’t forever and I am confident I will achieve my ambition of returning to education to work within the healthcare sector.
“The project has also benefitted my son because I can now be a better mum, the mum he deserves surrounded by so much love and happiness.”
Siân Gwenllian AM hosted the ‘Steps Into The Future’ event with more than 100 guests celebrating the successes of the project, which will feature participants speaking about how it has changed their lives.
Article added: 15th December 2016
