Return At the Sharp End
Working with young people is known to be very difficult, so it is encouraging to hear of Point, an organisation serving youngsters from the age of 11 through to 25 living in Fishguard, Goodwick and the surrounding areas.
Last year
the membership stood at 297 and 104 of those had joined in that year, a
tremendous accolade for Point!
Point was established in 2000 with help from the National Lottery, European Objective One Funding and Children in Need. At present there are six members of staff under the direction of Tanya Horwood.
At an open meeting on 27th February, about 40 people were given a presentation of the work being undertaken by Point. Like many of us, I had an idea of the sort of things that are on offer, but was amazed at the range of activities provided.
The aim of Point is to offer support to young people in all sorts of ways.
There are opportunities for quiet
places to do homework, play pool, make (loud) music, talk to a staff
member about personal problems, as well as there being organised
cookery sessions, art events, outings and the like.
Last year the young people gave up their free time to do a beach clean up and a tidy up in Lota Park. They also decorated a carnival float for the carnival on August Bank Holiday Saturday.
Recently, Pembrokeshire County Council
has been very supportive, converting the Pop Works premises, asking
only a small rent, and even paying for using an office in the
building! Point is also developing links with the education service.
Hearing some of the young people last week enthusing about Point, I realise what a valuable and unique asset the youngsters have in Fishguard.
While this is a non-religious organisation, it is something that Christians would find worthy of support.
For more information, please visit
www.pointypt.org.uk.
Sally Wilson, March 2009
Posted: Tue, 17/03/09