Before lockdown, the young people of South Wight Area Youth (SWAY) enjoyed something special as the autumn evenings draw in.
Small socially distanced groups gathered around a campfire, warmed by the light and heat sharing encouraging conversations and games.
The fire pit evenings were held in different locations across the south Wight courtesy of various landowners and following government youth guidelines groups of 10, unless otherwise in households, got together with SWAY’s youth workers.
The sessions were well attended and provided great success. Sitting around a fire in the dark created an atmosphere and closeness that has helped reconnect the young people with each other and have been a great follow up to the summer activities, enabling the young people and leaders to build bonds and create connections.
Parents have given some great feedback and stated that these sessions have provided a real lifeline during this time.
Young people particularly enjoy whittling sticks to cook marshmallows over the fire and playing a variety of games before coming together to share some thoughts and stories.
Jack Norridge, one of SWAY’s youth workers says:
“It’s a great way to relax and chat to the young people in a space where they can talk openly about any issues on their minds.”
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During half term, these evenings were replaced with day time beach BBQ’s and games, as well as a visit to the Aqua Park at Tapnell and kayaking days at Corf Camp.
The Youth workers had hoped to keep meeting around campfires in the evenings throughout November, but as it’s not possible they look forward to a couple of sessions in December and will go back to meeting virtually during the current lockdown.
To find out more information about these evenings and the other activities of SWAY see www.southwightyouth.org
