The Stroud Rural Peer Education Project was initiated by young people to act as a self-support group in which they could discuss the issues affecting them including substance abuse.
Who we are
12 young people
Where we're based
Stroud, Gloucestershire
When we started
1999
How we started
The project started in 1999. A group of local sixth formers asked Debbie Lang if she could help set up a drop-in centre to provide health information, advice and guidance. Debbie suggested that more could be achieved, both by and for the sixth formers, if they would volunteer to learn about the health matters they were interested in, and be trained to educate other young people.
Our work
The Stroud Rural Peer Education Project was initiated by young people to act as a self-support group in which they could discuss the issues affecting them including substance abuse. It was partly borne out of a lack of facilities and conflict with other members of the community and today has made significant strides in combating such problems. The main activities of the project are running interactive workshops and consultations for young people on issues such as drugs, sexual issues, bullying, diets and self image. A number of consultation projects on a variety of issues that represent young people's needs have also taken place, which include transport in Gloucestershire, crime and disorder strategies, drug awareness workshops for parents and local schools, and national consultations with the National Children's Agency, DEFRA, the National Consumer Council and the National Youth Agency.
Future plans
Were you part of this winning group? We'd love to hear from you about what you're up to now!
Project website
http://www.philiplawrenceawards.net
The work that these individuals are doing is first class. The young people themselves have gained a substantial amount in terms of their self-esteem, their ability to speak in public and their ability not to be intimidated by the world at large.
Phil Sullivan, Head of Community Services, Stroud District Council
