Safety Through Strength Annual Report 2024-25 - Page 16

Following the success of the summer sessions, a continued need for provision was identified, particularly among older children (ages 12-15) who had formed strong connections through the project and began to enjoy art as a means of expressing and regulating their emotions. Two high schoolaged participants expressed a keen interest in continuing to use the facility, which led to the development of a weekly Thursday evening session focused on art and recreational activities, utilising the pool table purchased through the project. Initially starting with just two young people from the project, the group has now expanded to around 6-8 regular attendees, four of whom are from the original project. Recognising the value of these sessions but unable to fund them internally, the OPCC reached out to local organisations and community members to seek sponsorship to support and sustain the initiative.