The Swan Youth Project
Hillcrest works closely with the fantastic Swan Youth Project, based in Downham Market.
"Swan Youth Project is a place where you can be you can be yourself whatever is going on in your life. We support young people and their families with a whole variety of needs. Getting to know our young people really well and understanding what works for them is key to all of our support. One size does not fit all".
What does the Swan Youth Project offer?
Open Access Sessions
Open Access sessions are a chance for young people to come together and spend time with friends in a positive environment. We have activities going on for those who want to be involved in these, but essentially we are there to enable conversations, support and friendships.
Staff are on hand to offer support with wellbeing and facilitate the sessions
Our usual groups are:
- Tuesday:4.30pm – 6.30pm Age 8+
- Thursday: 4pm – 6pm Primary from age 8+
- Friday: 4.30pm – 6.30pm High school age only
One to One Support
We support young people on a 1:1 basis with mild/emerging mental health concerns or general well-being. We offer 6 sessions initially and then assess need from there. This is aimed at young people who might be struggling to attend school or their usual activities.
Family Support
Our family worker can help parents and carers with things like behaviour, attendance at school, transitions and signposting to appropriate services, she is also a fabulous listening ear. We are non-judgmental and can support with a wide range of worries and issues. We know that the teen brain can impact on the whole family. We have lots of tips and tricks up our sleeves to try to make these years slightly less painful, so do get in touch for a confidential chat to find out more.
Young Carers
At Swan Youth Project our young carers are important to us, we have the 'Carer Friendly Tick Award' to show our commitment to them. We also have a Young Carers Key worker who supports our young carers and their families, by linking them to the best groups and checking in with them regularly.
No Child Goes Hungry Scheme
At Swan Youth Project, our ‘No Child Goes Hungry’ scheme aims to support young people and families in short term crisis. This is done by providing food parcels to families and linking all families with our family support service. We also have a hygiene bank at the centre stocked full of personal necessities for all young people within our area. Young people have access to the hygiene bank during Open Access sessions, or they can drop by the centre and request to use it.
Re-new
A nearly new shop for young people! Pop along and browse the rails of new and nearly new clothes, shoes and accessories. We take only the very best stock for our young people. Everything is in excellent condition and the best part is...it’s affordable!
Bike Kitchen
Every Thursday from 4-6pm, Young people can come along with their bike and we are able to complete:
- MOT Safety checks
- Basic repairs
- Drinks and snacks are available too!