Generosity that is so important for our young people
In Scarborough, almost one third of residents live in areas that are among the most deprived in England, meaning the provision of mental health services can often be insufficient. The £345,000 funding announced by the Royal Foundation of The Prince and Princess of Wales and Two Ridings Community Foundation will help organisations who are intervening early to ensure that young people’s mental health issues don’t reach crisis point and can be prevented.
Their Royal Highnesses heard how the funding will increase the help organisations can provide for young people’s mental health and wellbeing. This will include provision of safe spaces, affordable sports and outdoor activities, youth work and creative workshops. The funding is the result of generous donations from local individuals and businesses who want to make a difference, and they were represented at the royal visit.
Jan Garrill, Chief Executive, Two Ridings Community Foundation, said: “Community foundations like Two Ridings are the means of uniting people and businesses who care passionately and want to invest locally with the grassroots charitable organisations that live and breathe supporting people.” The royals met people from Gallows Close Centre, Sidewalk Youth Project and Flash Company Arts (Whitby) who told William and Kate how the funding will impact them.
Kate was greeted first by two-year-old Callie Rose Wood-Sheader, dressed as a princess, who gave Kate flowers and a painting, which she warmly received. Kimmie Avison, from Gallows Close Centre, said: “It’s surreal really. I couldn’t take my eyes off Princess Kate because she’s just beautiful, and naturally beautiful."
Steve Blower, Chief Executive of Sidewalk Youth Project, said: “Funding is crucial in keeping the doors open for Sidewalk. We work directly with young people where they’re at – on the streets, at the skatepark, youth centres – and mentoring in schools, providing vital support.”