A project pledging to get parents and young people talking openly about the issues that affect them the most will be offering places again to local families this Spring.
The Strengthening Families Programme, a free scheme for young people aged 10 to 14-years-old and their parents or carers is offering two new courses beginning in March.
Using discussion, games and fun activities to teach tips on working together and showing love and support to each other, the project, initially run as part of a trial by Cardiff University, offers a free crèche so families with younger children can also take part.
With the next programmes being held at Rhymney Comprehensive School and Bedwas High School the project aims to help young people avoid problems with drugs and alcohol, resist peer pressure and communicate better with parents and caregivers about the matters which may affect them as they grow.
With success in several areas across the Caerphilly borough last year, the Strengthening Families team are keen to hear from families who want to sign up for the new courses to take place in weekly two-hour long sessions over a period of seven weeks.
Strengthening Families Co-ordinator Louise Bajada, said: “The programme is a great opportunity for families to spend time together, developing skills to strengthen their relationships with each other.
“It’s a fun-filled seven weeks with family projects, games and activities for everyone to enjoy.
“We welcome any family in the Caerphilly area that would like to apply to attend the programme”.
During the first hour of each weekly session, parents and young people meet separately with group workers so they can speak freely and discuss the issues important to them.
Parent sessions include a series of DVD’s, short discussions and activities with tips on how to encourage good behaviour, set boundaries and protect their teens against alcohol and substance misuse.
Youth sessions will see activities, games and fun tasks conveying important messages, including dealing with emotions, stress, peer pressure and difficult behaviour.
The second hour of each meeting will see both groups come together to take part in family activities and through open discussion, tasks and games learn how they can enjoy sharing time together. Refreshments will be served during a break.
The project will see applicants who wish to take part split into two groups. One group will take part in the seven weekly sessions and the other group will be monitored to provide a comparison of how effective the programme is.
All applicants have an equal chance of being in either group.
Anyone interested in applying for the next programme or for details of further programmes planned across the borough, contact The Strengthening Families Programme team on 07824 596991.