Young people linked to a Barnardo’s Armagh project have marked the completion of the third year of their Peer Coaching Programme, funded by Children in Need.
The ‘Disabled Children and Young People’s Participation Project’ allows them to meet in pairs once a week in local cafes and restaurants, giving them the chance to socialise, discuss issues affecting them and be more independent.
The young people are matched together because they face similar issues and have similar interests.
Barnardo’s DCYPPP Manager Eugene Moan said: “Since last September there have been over 150 meet ups between the young people as part of the Peer Coaching Programme.
“The aim has been building confidence and making right choices.
“The young people have also challenged themselves to try new things like public speaking, travelling by taxi and placing orders in cafes.”
One of the participants – 20-year-old Caitlyn Turley – has spoken of the benefits.
“Peer coaching gives me a lot of confidence and makes me feel good,” she explained. “It helps me to get out and about, go to different places and I like helping my mentee with any issues.”
The young people who took part in the programme were presented with certificates at a recent event at the Market Place Theatre.
Barnardo’s Armagh DCYPPP, is based at Tower Hill, and anyone interested in get in touch can phone 028 3741 4541 for more information.
