Fordingbridge youth clubs need help after volunteer shortage

The Salvation Army says it is short of people to help run its weekly Thursday sessions after several volunteers left earlier this year, with numbers falling further over the summer.

It is now appealing for adults willing to give just a few hours a month to help keep the clubs running.

Mike French, who leads The Salvation Army in Fordingbridge, said: “We rely on the generosity of volunteers to shine Christ’s love in our community – they are truly the backbone of all that we do.

“Without people willing to step forward, our youth clubs simply cannot exist.”

He said volunteers could make a lasting difference to young people by providing “a safe place to belong” and helping them develop resilience and build positive relationships.

Youth Clubs (Image: Salvation Army)

The sessions, held every Thursday from 3.15pm to 6.30pm, are split into two groups and give local youngsters a place to meet friends, take part in activities and develop confidence and life skills.

Volunteers do not need previous experience and can help with one or both sessions. Ideally, the charity would like people able to commit to both groups one week each month, but anyone who can attend just one session is also encouraged to apply.

Activities include pool, air hockey, foosball, outdoor football, card and board games, as well as games on the Nintendo Switch and Xbox consoles.

Cooking and craft activities could also return if volunteers with those skills come forward.

Anyone aged 18 or over can apply. Training will include safeguarding and volunteers will need to complete a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

Mr French said the main requirement was a genuine desire to support and engage positively with young people.

People interested in volunteering can contact Michael French at Michael.French@salvationarmy.org.uk. More information is available by searching online for Fordingbridge Salvation Army.