Newton Aycliffe-based Crafter’s Companion has teamed up with Darlington’s Youth Offending Service (YOS) to offer a six-week training programme designed to improve the self-esteem, confidence and life skills of young people in the area.
The programme, which will run throughout the school holidays, will give 12-16-year-olds involved with the YOS the chance to take part in a range of classes at the craft company’s store in Newton Aycliffe.
The classes will be delivered by the Crafter’s Companion in-store team and the YOS team, and will include a variety of skills development classes in areas such as decoupage, painting, and drawing.
Crafter’s founder Sara Davies said: “The YOS is an invaluable service for young people so we’re looking forward to supporting the initiative.
“We have a programme in place designed to give back to the communities we operate in and getting involved with something as worthwhile as the work the YOS team deliver is very important to us.
“Hopefully the classes will give those who come along the chance to enjoy themselves, while trying their hand at something different and learning new skills.”
The Darlington YOS aims to help reduce youth offending in Darlington and improve the lives of the young people by generating opportunities to learn and develop through a variety of community initiatives.
Graham Hall at Darlington Borough Council YOS said: “We’re delighted to be working in partnership with the team at Crafter’s Companion.
“The series of educational workshops will give the young people involved the chance to work with experts and learn new skills, which will hopefully help to improve their self-esteem and confidence.”
The six-week course will start on July 26 and run every Wednesday until August 30.
Crafter’s Companion manufacture and distribute craft supplies and tools all over the world through its website, its own retail stores, on TV shopping channels and via independent retailers.
The company runs an extensive engagement programme designed to help support community causes. For more information about Crafter’s Companion and its work in the community please visit www.crafterscompanion.co.uk.
For more information about the Darlington YOS visit http://www.darlington.gov.uk/your-council/policing/youth-offending-service/.