In the last six months we have had more members join the services with additional or complex needs. 

 As well as epilepsy 42% of the current Youth Group have a learning disability and 54% of youth group members have drug resistant epilepsy. As a few members of this group have complex needs and need additional support. This is a challenging time for youth workers to ensure that the service is accessible and supportive for all members, and we hope to be able to fund an additional residential weekend next year for a small group of young people who have more complex support needs than currently access our residential trips, which focus on outdoor activities. 

Residential weekends are open to all who participate in our weekly youth groups, but we have had feedback that some individuals would love to have a getaway but not at the high energy and physical activity needed for the current trips.

Because of the challenge stated above, we are currently seeking funding for an additional annual trip that focuses on life skills that are needed to be away from home to gain some independence and to have an opportunity for profound social interaction with a small group. Designed with young people who have additional support needs as well as epilepsy like learning disabilities, autism, and physical disabilities. In addition to the opportunities that the young people will receive it will provide parents and carers who have an extensive caring role in their child’s life a well needed weekend of respite.