Council grant supports free outdoor youth sessions in Pategill

Penrith Town Council has awarded The Outside Club CIO a £2,000 grant to support the continued delivery of free outdoor youth sessions at Pategill Park.

The funding will contribute towards 20 sessions for children and young people, offering games, crafts, bushcraft and outdoor skills. Activities will be shaped by those attending, giving young people a voice in the provision and helping them develop confidence, skills and positive connections within their community.

The Outside Club has become an established part of the Pategill community, building lasting relationships with local young people. Some children who first joined the sessions in Year 6 are now in Year 11 and volunteer to help deliver activities for younger participants.

Cllr Val Bowen, Penrith Town Council Chair & Penrith Mayor, said:

“The Outside Club provides a welcoming and positive space where young people can spend time outdoors, learn new skills and help shape activities around their own interests.

“We are pleased to award this grant, which will ensure that 20 sessions can be provided free of charge. This is a valuable investment in young people and in the Pategill community.”

Cllr Barbara Jayson, Penrith Town Council Deputy Chair & Penrith Deputy Mayor, said:

“Good community work starts with listening to young people and being there for them as they grow up. The Outside Club has built real connections with young people in Pategill, giving them a place where they feel welcome and involved. It is wonderful to see those who first came along as children now helping with the sessions and becoming active members of their community.”

Caitlin Nugent, Project Lead at The Outside Club CIO, said:

“We are incredibly grateful to Penrith Town Council and all our funders for supporting this work. Their funding helps us keep the Pategill sessions free, consistent and accessible, giving local young people a safe space to spend time together, try new activities and feel part of their community.”

The grant has been awarded through Penrith Town Council’s Community Grants Scheme, which supports local organisations and projects that deliver direct benefits for Penrith residents.

For more information about The Outside Club and their sessions, please visit their website: https://theoutsideclub.co.uk/