EDDY PEOPLE

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Accessible webpage.

NOTE:

Although the main website for EDDY PEOPLE is nearly all written to accessibility standards, there are some flash navigation buttons and other objects that are provided for visual effect. Unfortunately these may not be accessible by all accessibility software.

This page is provided to combine the information from all main webpages to provide easier accessibility for those with visual impairments, to the information regaring EDDY PEOPLE through the prominant use of text.

Should there be any access problems please contact Andy Bustin on 0870 6060365 or e-mail jeff@wynlea.co.uk.

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HISTORY:

EDDY evolved from the Durham Youth Enterprise Scheme, (DYES), which was founded in 1994.

When the DYES programme was first piloted in 1994 it was developed after research into youth crime and anti social behaviour and, in particular, youth criminality.

The programme researched these issues within County Durham and using research compiled by Coopers & Lybrand for the Princes Trust in 1994, it was discovered that Youth Crime cost County Durham £12.8 million in 1994.  These figures were reinforced by the Audit Commission Report-Misspent Youth (1996).

Since 1994 the programme has been developed to meet demand, both operationally and strategically within County Durham, and has progressed from strength to strength.

During this time representatives of Durham Police authority and Durham Constabulary have engaged directly with over 3000 young people, indirectly that figure could easily be trebled through the cascade process through peer influence. Most recently a young man appeared on national television praising the programme and its success, he made mention that EDDY has had a dramatic impact on his life and has enabled him to pursue his life’s ambition to join the HM Forces. Nathan is currently excelling at the military college at Harrogate.

Mr Lee Fish LLB (Hons) a barrister with New Court Chambers Newcastle worked with the programme during his teenage years as a peer mentor, (Smartzone). Mr Fish continues to support the programme.

During the period PC Lynda Hutchinson was awarded the Queens Police medal for co-ordinating the programme.

OUR PATRON:

The Rt. Hon Tony Blair PM continues to be patron of the programme. Regular contact has been made with No 10 to keep the PM abreast of the expansion and improvements of the programme. Unfortunately due to his hectic schedule the PM has not been able to respond to the needs of the programme and it has been decided to identify a new patron.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES:

More recently the need to change was identified and the scheme was re-launched under the EDDY banner, Engage Divert Develop Young people. The aims remain the same as DYES, divert young people away from crime and anti social behaviour by developing the individual’s social and citizenship skills.

The objectives of the programme are to promote personal and social development, to encourage good citizenship and to reduce social exclusion.

The programme is run by a small steering group who are responsible for the day to day running of the programme. The majority of the steering group members are in full time employment and volunteer their time free of charge to ensuring that the programme meets its aims and objectives. 

EDDY not only delivers a personal development programme to disadvantaged young people and those at risk of offending but also offers a reward and positive engagement to those young people who have made a positive impact on their community.

This is achieved through a variety of activities and workshops. 

During 2006 128 young people were engaged with directly, 48% of these were male and 52% were female, (this number was limited due to the venue and support staff available, this figure could of easily been 500).   

ACTIVITIES:

The residential phase of the programme involved four five-day personal development sessions. The majority of activities are based outdoors and are supported by centre based workshops.  Emphasis is placed on teamwork and building on an individual’s social and communication skills.  Through participation in physical challenges we aim to increase an individual’s confidence and have a positive effect on their self-esteem.

The young people challenge themselves through a number of activities including icebreakers, high ropes course, gorge walking, climbing, and walking.  There is also a full itinerary of structured evening activities, as well as many fun group games and a much looked forward to disco on the last evening.

The young people attending are placed in a group of no more than eight and are supported by an adult group leader and a young person who is either Smartzone trained or a past participant.

The young people work in their groups with the guidance of their adult group leaders to decide what they think is appropriate rules for their stay at the centre.  Taking into consideration Health and Safety, a clear list of rules is agreed, which everyone must adhere to.

The activities are structured to maximise learning and concentrate on team building, leadership, and communication skill, using initiative and confidence building. These programmes are adapted and developed as a result of feedback from young people and staff who have attended previous programmes.  Everyone is supported and encouraged to do their individual best. 

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EVENTS:

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REFERRAL CRITERIA:

Referrals to the project are accepted from a number of organisations throughout County Durham and Darlington e.g. Positive Futures, Schools, Education Welfare, Education in the Community, Police, Youth Engagement/Offending Service, Learning Mentors, Social Services, Alternative Education Projects and various Community Groups including families and friends.

The criteria for referrals are:

• Aged between 12-17;
• Has been a victim of crime;
• Under achieving at school;
• At risk of offending (not convicted);
• Low confidence and self esteem;
• Would positively benefit from attendance.

CONTACT:

To make a referral: contact PC Andy Bustin on 0870 6060365 or write to him at Police Headquarters, Aykley Heads, Durham, DH1 5TT.

SPONSORS AND SUPPORTERS OF EDDY PEOPLE:

LINKS:

The following are some useful links to other websites

Durham Constabulary
The Army
Bikewise
Speak to Frank

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