Girls Group turned into the Friendship Group Reunion in May with over 30 initial attendees we welcomed 12 young carers across three courses which have been previously run across 3 years. We had the luxury of staying at Burwell House, Cambridgeshire – allowing us full use of the house including a beautiful garden, spacious bedrooms, an art room and plenty of space to switch off for the young people. The weekend consisted of introducing the young carers to relaxation techniques, a reminder of course content including; body positivity, self-talk and confidence as well as a safe spaces to discuss topics such as; body hair, stretch marks, the effects of social media and periods.
The group gelled really nicely and respected one another’s contributions to the discussions, one young carer commented: ‘Friendship Group is where you can learn about things they don’t tell us in school and it’s a great way to make friends’
As well as reflecting on course content we invited Michelle from Edge of Scared who specialises in sound bathing; a deeply immersive experience that involves being ‘bathed in sound waves as you relax’, it was so relaxing even the neighbourhood cat joined us! a much needed and well deserved rest for the young people.
Below is some of the feedback we have received following completion of the course and residential:
What did you gain from the course?
- Confidence, respect and now I know there are other young carers
- More Self-confidence and Self-Respect
- Help with self-image and feminine biological issues I struggled with
- I have learnt to talk respectfully of myself
- Better understanding of good self-talk
- Help with mindfulness & Self love
- More confidence and Self-Belief
- How to be mindful about ourselves, how to talk to ourselves politely
- Knowing that I have people to talk to and have a support system
- Knowledge that people are there and that I can talk to people who have been through similar things and can relate
- How to be able to talk to myself in a good way
- An ability to have a break which is often much needed. And support with school and home
Describe the course in one quote:
- ‘a sweet friendship refreshes the soul’
- ‘learn and explore yourself’
- ‘it’s fun and everyone respects your ideas and no-one makes fun of you’
- ‘it’s where you can learn about things they don’t tell us in school and it’s a great way to make friends’
- ‘A great way to be open and learn more’
- ‘Fun relaxing a home from home’
- ‘learn and explore your own abilities and qualities’
With special thanks to Michelle from Edge of Sacred and to Amanda, Sarah and all the staff at Burwell House
