GMYN takes group of separated asylum-seeking young people on an adventure to the Lake District 

At GMYN we recently took a group of separated asylum-seeking young people on a five-day adventure to the Lake District.

For some, it was the first time they had explored the British countryside and gave them a chance to be children again and experience joy without fear, perhaps for the first time since leaving their homes.

In the beautiful surroundings of Ullswater, the young people took part in lots of fun activities, including orienteering, gorge walking, hiking, and canoeing. The activities helped boost their confidence and team-working skills. 

Studies also show that connecting with nature significantly improves mental and physical wellbeing and it was important for the group to rebuild a positive relationship with the outdoors after having negative expediencies on their journey to the UK.

One young person who went on the five-day trip, said: “I’ve really enjoyed us working together as a team. We were all here to help each other out and make each other realise we can do it as long as we’re together – we really energise each other.” 

Reflecting on one of the hikes they completed, another young person said: “I looked at the hill and I thought that was way too high but then we made it to the top I was so proud!”

A third young person added: “Nature makes me feel at peace.”

A huge thanks to Sigma Capital and Simple Life Homes who made the trip possible by funded the retreat and arranging transport for the young people and GMYN staff.

Thanks also to The Outward Bound Trust for adapting to the needs of our young people and making it so fun! 

The young people who took part in the trip are supported at GMYN through our Beeing Together programme. The programme supports young refugees and seperated asylum-seeking children and young people across all 10 Greater Manchester boroughs.

As part of the Beeing Together programme, young people who are seeking support can gain new skills and experiences during sessions run by GMYN.

If you know of any separated asylum-seeking children that live or reside in Greater Manchester, please invite them to get in touch and come along to our sessions. You can contact our Programme Manager Eleanor Reardon via email at [email protected]