Supporting Young People in Dumfries & Galloway

Since 2010, we have been delivering a project across Dumfries & Galloway that supports some of the region’s most vulnerable and disadvantaged young people. Many of the communities we work in are recognised among the top 10% most deprived areas in Scotland, and the young people we support often face significant barriers in their lives.

Our mission is to help them overcome these challenges, build confidence, and create a brighter future.

We focus on providing volunteering opportunities for young people aged 15 and over who are struggling or disengaged from education due to complex personal circumstances. Through tailored support and meaningful opportunities, we help them reconnect with learning, develop skills, and take positive steps toward employment and independence.

1:1 Coaching & Support

Our core work centres on providing intensive, personalised support to young people through 1:1 coaching. This support is not time-limited, allowing us to build trust and work at a pace that suits each individual.

Through this approach, we help young people develop:

• Confidence and self-belief
• Personal goals and aspirations
• Motivation and life skills that improve employability

For those with little or no academic achievement, we support them to access volunteering placements when they feel ready. These placements provide a safe and supportive environment where young people can grow, develop practical skills, and gain valuable experience.

Our aim is to help them move forward - whether that means returning to education, entering further learning, or progressing onto an employability pathway.

We also work closely with education providers, social care services, youth justice teams, and partner charities to ensure young people receive the coordinated support they need.

The Helping Hands Group Volunteering Programme was introduced in 2024 and inspired by our Project Manager, Paul Riding.

Designed to complement our 1:1 support, the programme brings young people together for an 11-week, term-time volunteering programme.

Working in small groups, participants take part in a wide range of community-focused activities and projects that make a real difference locally. Through these experiences, young people:

• Develop teamwork and communication skills
• Learn about ethics, responsibility, and respect
• Build practical skills and confidence
• Gain experience that strengthens their future employability prospects

The programme not only benefits the community but also gives young people the opportunity to feel valued, connected, and capable of making a positive contribution.