COVID-19 Update
The Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak has resulted in a suspension of Youth Programme face-to-face events, including all our residential weekend events, for safety reasons for the time being.
The decision has been taken to only resume the events when it is considered safe to do so. To assess this, we have adopted the National Youth Agency's 'traffic light' system, also being used by the Scouting movement. We will only be resuming when the readiness level has hit the 'green' status. For more information, and to see the current status, please see their site at: https://nya.org.uk/
The Youth Programme follows the Unitarian ethos that we are all free to explore our own beliefs and views on life. The values of respect, tolerance and compassion towards others are reflected in the activities we offer. The youth leaders aim to create safe spaces where young people can explore their identity and direction in life. Participants are encouraged to celebrate diversity and difference in each other whilst cherishing all that binds people.
The aim is to see young people relaxing, laughing and having fun together. Everybody’s thoughts and opinions join together helping to create a rich and inspiring atmosphere. Activities are open to those who want to join a welcoming and encouraging community. The participants who attend the events weekends include Unitarians and those of other faith traditions and none. Most of the events are held at The Nightingale Centre, Great Hucklow in the heart of the Derbyshire countryside.
Within congregations, children and young people can take part in the Chalice Award programme.
For more information on the Youth Programme, please email us.
Funding
Bursaries and travel grants are available to those in need. Please see the application forms below for further details.
Youth Programme Bursary Details and Application Form
Marie Rosenberg Travel Grant Application Form
Youth Events
Programming for children under 12 is currently being reviewed. In the meantime, the Unitarian Youth Programme is pleased to be teaming up with Unitarian College to deliver UniFest. UniFest is a family event with a kids programme for children up to the age of 12, workshops for accompanying family members and a number of intergenerational sessions such as arts and crafts which aim to bring the community together. The purpose of the event is to help meet to social, emotional and spiritual needs of families with young children.
Inters for 12-14 yr olds
Inter weekend is a time for exploration, understanding and reflection.
Participants investigate a variety of topics in a range of creative ways.
Activities can include art, crafts, drama, games, creative writing and local walks. A safe and trusting bond is created between all involved during the weekends.
The group always enjoys welcoming new people and great friendships are forged between all members of the group.
Inter and Senior weekends meet together at the Nightingale Centre, in March and November, whilst running their own individual programmes. The event runs from 18:00 Friday to 14:00 on the Sunday.
Inter Weekend generally consists of the following:
- Getting to know you games
- Walk or Trip and follow up activities
- Carousel of art, drama, creative writing and a mystery session
- Whole group theme session
- Late night activity - quiz night, games night, party etc
- Bubble Time – a small group session focusing on personal exploration and sharing, usually in age related groups
- Epilogue – late night, time for quiet reflection
- Chapel
- Visit to 'The Trough'
- Closing games and feedback
Seniors for 15-17 yr olds
Senior weekend is a powerful and thought-provoking weekend for young people whilst still maintaining an emphasis on fun.
The weekends include a myriad of activities and discussions in a safe and trusting space created by both participants and leaders.
Activities include credo groups, circle time, workshops and walks in the countryside. A unique community develops between the teenagers. These strong links are often maintained throughout the year via various communication networks. Friendships are easily made if you have never been before and the group will welcome you with open arms.
Senior and Inter weekends meet together at the Nightingale Centre, in March and November, whilst running their own individual programmes. The event runs from 18:00 Friday to 14:00 on the Sunday.
Senior Weekend generally consists of the following:
- Icebreakers and getting to know you games
- Walk
- Specialist workshops exploring the theme of the weekend
- Creative sessions
- Credo - a small group session focusing on personal exploration and sharing, usually in age related groups
- Late night activities e.g. sports, dance etc.
- Circle Time - late night, time for quiet reflection
- Visit to 'The Trough'
- Chapel
- Closing games and feedback