A GROUP of eight young people from Gloucestershire have attended an event to help them improve their communication skills and build their self-esteem and resilience.

The young people are all supported by 2gether NHS Foundation Trust’s Children and Young People Service (CYPS).

They attended ARTiculation, a residential arts event in Crewe run by Action for Children, a leading children’s charity which runs over 650 services to improve the lives of young people.

Action for Children family support practitioner Nikki Mayer and two volunteers accompanied the group to the event.

She said: “ARTiculation offers young people an opportunity to learn new creative skills, improve their communications skills, meet new friends, forget about their problems at home and enjoy themselves.

“It also broadens their horizons by introducing them to people from different backgrounds and different parts of the UK, and helps to overcome social anxieties and build confidence.

“The young people also took part in a creative consultation where they were asked about what things are important to them and what they want to see from services and policy makers alike.

“The event was a great success and the young people all enjoyed the weekend, overcoming some big personal challenges to engage in the activities. Friendships were formed, barriers overcome and a lot of fun was had!”

16-year-old Frankie was one of the young people who attended the event.

She said: “ARTiculation was incredible. I loved the dance and the relaxed atmosphere of the weekend. It was such a positive experience for me.”

Action for Children works with in collaboration with 2gether to support children and their families and help them find solutions to improve their emotional health and wellbeing.

The young people are supported with a variety of emotional and behavioural difficulties through intensive pro-active engagement and social groups as well as through a participation project where they are empowered to help drive and shape services.