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Wynding Down Project

Wynding Down Project’s Girls on the Move programme ‘Loanhead Lassies’ ran from early October to the end February 2008. The programme involved 17 young woman in total. All of the participants were girls who did not normally engage in local mainstream youth provision. Two of the group were referred to Wynding Down Project by Midlothian Social Work Department, the other 15 were “recruited” to the programme via street work methods. When planning what activities do a number of young women were consulted during street work sessions. The programme consisted of the following activities:

 A six-week instructor led Skiing programme

A six-week instructor led Snowboarding programme

A six-week instructor led High Diving programme

All activities were free of charge to the participating young people. The aim of taking part in these group activities was to promote their health and development through physical activity and provide opportunities for learning new skills, which will encourage and develop confidence and self esteem.

The following feedback was given:

“It was a fantastic experience. The programme went really well, in particular the Skiing and Snowboarding. It was great to see how quickly the group learned the skills required and really rewarding to see the hard work and effort they put in. These girls were a pleasure to work with. They formed good friendships with each other and engaged positively with the instructors and youth workers. Really hard work but thoroughly enjoyable.”- Dawn Burgess Wynding Down Project Youth Worker

“The programme was a huge success. The girls worked really hard, got on well with each other, learned lots of new skills but most importantly - had fun! It was a pleasure to watch them grow in confidence as the weeks went on and watch their friendships develop. These activities are hard work but very rewarding and it was clear that the group learned that it was possible to work hard and have fun at the same time.”-Roseanne McMillan Wynding Down Project Youth Worker

“Absolutely loved it. The Skiing and Snowboarding were brilliant. Really hard work but I picked it up really quickly. Would love to do more things with the girls and staff-awesome!” Young Person 1

“ I had a really great time. I don’t normally do stuff like that but I really enjoyed it and would like to do more. The workers and instructors were really good and helped with my confidence. It was hard work and my legs hurt a lot but after the first few weeks I was fine. I had a ball.” Young Person 2

“This was one of the best things I’ve done in ages-really liked it. Never been snowboarding before and couldn’t believe how quickly I learned. Very hard work but it beats hanging around the streets of Loanhead anytime!” Young Person 3