NAYC is planning an amazing trip to the Outer Hebrides as part of the Emerging Leaders Training Programme, where a group of 11 young people will develop skills in leadership, teamwork and confidence through challenging activities, engaging with the local community whilst staying in self-catering accommodation.

The Outer Hebrides, located off the western coast of Scotland, is a group of islands renowned for their untouched landscape, breathtaking beaches, and captivating history. NAYC has historical links with the Scaladale hostel and activity centre, now run by the Lewis and Harris Youth Club Association (LHYCA), and last organised a trip back in 2018.

Throughout the trip, the young people will engage in a variety of cultural and educational activities including meeting and engaging with the community and other young people on the island. They will have the chance to explore historic sites such as the ancient standing stones of Callanish and wander through charming villages filled with local artisans as well as having the opportunity to learn about traditional Scottish music and dance, taste local delicacies, and participate in community events.

We aim to inspire them to dream big, seek new experiences, and embrace diversity. We know that this trip will be a transformative experience, creating lasting memories, but also fostering personal development and equipping them with valuable life skills.

There is a significant investment in the trip that includes the cost of food, accommodation, travel, activities, and staff. We are totally dependent on external funding through securing grants and receiving donations, but with every young person undertaking fundraising too.

This group of 11 young people are all young leaders at their local youth groups around Northamptonshire. Over the last 2 years the NAYC Youth Development Team have worked with them to complete the emerging leaders training; developing their leadership and teamwork skills. Each and every one of them brings a different skill to the team, some more confident than others but helping each other to achieve what they step out to do.

During their training with NAYC, we have looked at different elements of leadership, risk assessments, session planning and how to keep young people safe. Alongside this they have got to know each other, made new friendships, and tackled various activities encouraging each other to their full potential.

The group are now set to take on this 14-day expedition. This will be a big challenge for them, not only being away from home for that length of time but in a location that is completely different (and very remote) to how life is for them at home. With no shops within 25 mins distance, it will mean they have to plan their meals ahead and shop accordingly!

The team will be looking to take on various activities, including some amazing opportunities to kayak along the coastline and snorkel.

The group are extremely keen to also make an impact on the local community and have already signed up for a beach clean with the Clean Coast group, as well as looking to visit local youth groups and the PHAB group in Stornoway to run sessions. They are also keeping their eyes peeled for any one-off events happening on the island while they are there, with the hope they can volunteer at one or two.

As a group they are busy planning their menus, and the cooking rota! Each young person will have opportunities to build their life skills on the trip with cooking duties alongside other chores like cleaning and laundry. For some this will be a completely new experience, however they are all keen to embrace this as part of the adventure. As part of the preparation some of the young leaders have also attended first aid training.

The group will be supported by 4 adult leaders and accompany them on the 13hr trip over 2 days by convoy. During the journey the group will be staying overnight just outside Glasgow at a local church hall.

NAYC knows this adventure will be life-changing and have a lasting positive impact on their future.

If you felt able to support the young people and make a financial contribution, however big or small, we would be very grateful.

Thank you.