Youngsters Thank Helena For Summer Fun Times

Teaming up with re:new, St Helens Council and Safer St Helens, Helena have provided children with a summer of fun through a programme bursting with activities and games to keep them occupied throughout the school holidays.

The youngsters took part in energetic and active projects such as Ramp Riders skate parks, wall climbing, vegetable growing and Brazilian soccer schools. Children also enjoyed chill-out time with indoor activities such as creative writing, drama workshops and arts and craft sessions.
Graham Ellis, Involvement Officer at Helena, said: “The children have had a really exciting summer. By working in partnership with numerous local agencies, Helena have provided youngsters with opportunities to make new friends, get fit and active with outdoor projects, and also learn and develop new creative skills with arts and drama workshops.
“Not only did the children have fun learning and being active, the events also served to keep them amused over their school break, which in turn can help to reduce reports of anti social behaviour  in our neighbourhoods.”

Rachel Bennett, from re:new Thatto Heath, also believes the summer programme has been a huge success. She added: “We have all enjoyed a very busy and active summer! It has been great spending time with the children,  and also very rewarding to see so many of them participating in the events and having a good time – even the bad weather didn’t dampen their spirits.
“Summer fun activities such as Ramp Riders and the Brazilian soccer schools have also allowed children to build new friendships. By giving children the chance to get involved in fun opportunities, all the agencies involved have helped to strengthen communities and give children pride in the area where they live.

Councillor Sue Murphy, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, Safer Communities and Youth said:  "Our summer campaign has been very encouraging. In addition to the Council's, 'Think Again' programme of activities, Crime and Disorder Reduction Partners worked together to provide a number fun, engaging activities to keep our younger residents entertained and the feedback from these sessions has been really positive."

To keep up to date with the latest events, log onto www.helenapartnerships.co.uk