Young Helpers are trained volunteers aged between 14 and 17, all of whom attended Campus projects as children.  Upon reaching the maximum age of attendance (13), those who have demonstrated the greatest potential for leadership are invited to attend Young Helper Project (YHP) – an intensive residential training weekend, during which they are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to enable them to volunteer on Campus projects.

During YHP, potential Young Helpers are introduced to key aspects of the role, including child safeguarding, managing challenging behaviour and working as part of a team. They are provided with opportunities throughout the project to develop existing strengths and put into practice the new skills which they have learned through participation in interactive group sessions.  The high ratio of adult volunteers to potential Young Helpers creates a supportive environment, which is conducive to personal development and considered reflection.

Following their successful completion of YHP, Young Helpers are invited to volunteer every summer thereafter.  Many continue to volunteer on Campus projects into adulthood; some have even gone on to coordinate projects, or have taken up positions as trustees on Campus’ Executive Committee.