Update from Bedford Giving
We are pleased to share the latest news from our colleagues at Bedford Giving, who have reported on several key developments and initiatives supporting young people across the borough.
Career Mentoring Programme
Bedford Giving recently held a celebration event at Bedford Academy for the 90 volunteer mentors who have supported Year 9 and 10 students over the past academic year. The mentors have helped young people build confidence and develop employability skills. Recruitment is now open for new mentors to join from September, with opportunities available to individuals at any stage in their career.
Taste of the Workplace
The organisation has launched a new work experience initiative called Taste of the Workplace, designed to bring employers into schools and provide hands-on experiences.
At Wixams Academy, students took part in a Blue Lights Project with emergency services, including a live knife crime simulation and a hospital resuscitation exercise.
At Daubeney Academy, local employers led classroom-based projects and site visits covering topics such as water supply, housing, construction, and environmental design.
This initiative has received significant local and national media attention, including coverage on the BBC website and social media.
Free Summer Activities for Young People
Throughout August, Bedford Giving is delivering free summer sessions for young people in Bedford and Wixams, supported by the Bedfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner:
At Bedford’s Central Family Hub: creative sessions are open to 11–16 year olds on Wednesday afternoons.
In Wixams: four-day-a-week programmes are running for both primary and secondary age groups, offering a wide range of activities.
These sessions aim to encourage creativity, physical activity, and social connection during the school holidays.
Mental Health Support – Follow The Pink Link Campaign
Bedford Giving has launched the Follow The Pink Link campaign to support parents and carers concerned about young people’s mental health. A new website provides professionally written guidance, advice on recognising warning signs, and links to local and national support services. The campaign was launched with visible promotion at Bedford Park Concerts.
Mental Health Training for Adults
Free training is available to help parents, carers, and trusted adults support teenagers experiencing mental health challenges. Sessions are available both online and in person, with face-to-face training scheduled for Monday 18 August and further sessions planned for the autumn.
Research Update
Bedford Giving continues to shape its programmes through research. Recent findings reveal that young people feel underprepared in areas such as financial literacy, communication, and critical thinking. The next phase of research will explore how older residents might support academic and social development in local primary schools.
Young Voices Conference
The next Young Voices Conference will take place on Tuesday 21 October 2025. Registration will open in early August.
We thank Bedford Giving for their continued work to support and empower young people in our community.