16 + Project

2009 saw the launch of an exciting new development in face2face.

Having secured Lloyds TSB Partnership for Drugs Initiative & NHS funding for a new worker face2face now offers an activity led substance support programme for 16-18 year olds.
This service is Borders wide and is the only one of its kind. Building on the strong partnerships and excellent reputation of the one to one support in schools with 11-16 yr olds this project recognises that to make a difference to the older age group requires a different and unique approach to engage them in positive lifestyle changes.

What do we mean by an ‘activity-led’ approach?

As with any face2face intervention, the central aim of this project is to enable young people to reflect and make positive choices regarding their drug and alcohol use. Using a framework of outdoor activities such as hill walking, mountain biking and climbing this project engages young people in healthy lifestyle alternatives. Other activities identified by the young person which will help them progress towards positive goals are also facilitated, so far this has included photography, art, motor bike maintenance, computing skills.

The activities are the vehicle by which young people connect to the possibility of changing their lives and seeing opportunities in their future. By sharing activities, positive relationships are built with face2face staff which creates an environment to safely address the issues impacting on their lives.

The flexibility and commitment of staff to individual young people will ensure they are supported at every stage in the process of change and staff will remain a gateway to other services and resources.

The work is open ended, non-judgemental and remains a constant in the all too often chaotic lives of young people.

The 16+ service is licensed to provide activities by the Adventure Activities Licensing Authority.