A community charity in Cramlington is empowering local young people to build self-confidence and life skills, thanks to a four-figure grant from a regional employer. The Rockets Community Foundation has launched the Beyond The Classroom project, designed for highly vulnerable young people aged 13-16 who have faced severe anxiety and significant challenges in their upbringing.
Grant Covers Project Costs
A £2,000 grant from the Banks Group's Banks Community Fund is covering transport, activity, and staff costs for the entire year, removing financial barriers to participation. The project includes off-site experiences, creative activities, and social events aimed at reducing isolation, building confidence, strengthening peer relationships, and encouraging sustained engagement. Participants are supported by a team of trusted adults who understand their complex needs.
Foundation's Origins and Impact
The Rockets Community Foundation grew from Cramlington Rockets RLFC's community outreach, using sport to engage vulnerable communities. Five years ago, it became a Charitable Incorporated Organisation and took over the Launchpad headquarters in Eastfield after Cramlington Town Council leased the building. Now, over 1,000 young people use the building annually for various activities, alongside community offerings like fitness classes, chair yoga, well-being sessions, and the Cuppa Club for older residents.
Beyond The Classroom Activities
Participants will also work in a new vegetable garden at the Launchpad. The project extends the Foundation's Teen Talk programme, a weekly Children In Need-funded initiative providing a safe space for young people to socialise, cook meals, gain food hygiene qualifications, and discuss important topics.
Steve Beaty, Rockets Community Foundation Lead, said: "Our Beyond The Classroom participants have all experienced really difficult situations during their young lives, making things many take for granted extremely challenging for them. Our aim is to build their self-confidence and provide life skills to manage public situations. Our first group activity was a visit to Nando's, which was the first restaurant experience for some. Ordering and eating in public was daunting, but the positive feedback made us optimistic about what we can achieve together. Banks' support will make a huge difference, ensuring no one misses out on activities that improve their lives."
Jamilah Hassan, Community Relations Manager at the Banks Group, added: "The Foundation understands its community's needs and makes a positive impact through its activities. The Beyond The Classroom project is carefully designed to support vulnerable young people's development. We hope the Foundation achieves all its goals."
The Banks Group's community funds are independently managed by Point North (formerly County Durham Community Foundation). Community groups near Banks Group projects interested in funding should contact the company via its website enquiry form to check eligibility.
