Work with young people with mental health issues praised

Wise Guys Training have recently completed two pieces of work in local high schools with young men looking at their ideas of masculinity and how this can impact on their well-being. The projects were funded through the Francis C Scott Trust and used a variety of activities that enabled the participants to discuss and explore different aspects of their lives and experiences.

Using informal techniques, they were able to engage the young men in a fun and innovative way. This created conversations about things that they wouldn’t usually get the opportunity to express such as emotions, relationships and vulnerability. They also looked at assertiveness, conflict resolution and risk taking with the pupils who were from Years 8, 9 and 10.

They received excellent feedback from the pupils involved and the staff from the schools. Quotes from pupils included “Eye opening and fun!” and “I will judge things differently when going into an argument”.

“I saw a side of our pupils I have never seen before…They grew in confidence as the sessions went on.” Graeme Dodds – Head of PE and Sport Development at Wennington Hall School.

This autumn, Wise Guys will be working with Barnardo’s on a new project with vulnerable and socially excluded young men. They will also be delivering an open workshop for professionals later this year (more details available soon). If you would be interested in attending a future workshop or would like more information about their work, please contact them directly:

Geoff Brand: 07427 935967
Charlie Bluglass: 07419 903683