Razlog

 

	An intrepid group of 12 young Cumbrians went on a Prince's Trust European Challenge in Razlog in Bulgaria - an area that is facing industrial decline and deprivation. During the three week challenge the young people helped transform a day centre school yard and interior for children with intellectual disabilities. The Prince's Trust team worked with the children encouraging them to get involved with painting, sweeping and other tasks. The young people were responsible for project managing the challenge from start to finish. This included raising funds in the UK through activities such as bag packing and securing sponsorship.
	While they were on location the group learnt a variety of skills from co-operation and confidence to concreting and bricklaying. As many of the young people were first-time travelers they also learnt about cross-cultural communication. Nine of the young people who took part in the programme are now in employment including Shirley Pate who since returning from the European Challenge has gained employment at a local nursery. Shirley has a back condition called scoliosis because of this she was bullied at school and left with few qualifications. Often she felt angry and even contemplated suicide.
	With support from The Prince's Trust Shirley's motivation, confidence and problem solving skills have increased significantly. During the European Challenge Shirley had to lead the team and use her newly honed skills to keep the project on track. Shirley said, "The best part of the challenge was seeing the children's faces when we handed the day centre over. I felt proud of myself for helping lead the team and I'm really pleased that I have now found a job doing what I love - looking after children. I hope this is the first step to achieving my dream to run my own nursery." Other success stories include Ian who is now planning his next challenge in Ecuador to help build a school and Matthew who since completing the programme has been approved his security license to work as a doorman

 

 

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