Reflex

We have formed a Reflex department to work specifically with young people who are at risk of offending. We are developing this opportunity through the Asset Based Community Development model which looks at the positive aspects of communities and builds opportunities for change and growth from there, thereby creating foundations for sustainable transformation.

We strategically target work with young people who:

1. live in social or economic deprivation
2. are disengaged from mainstream education
3. are engaged in criminal activities and/or anti social behaviour
4. are serving a custodial sentence

Our programmes are designed to raise the aspirations of young people, challenge their behaviour and raise their self esteem. All of our staff are dedicated to acting as positive role models and providing young people with relevant alternatives to offending behaviour.

We want to challenge the underlying root causes shaping young people’s behaviour and expectations. Reflex purposefully addresses four of the biggest factors leading to offending behaviour in young people…

• Underachievement in education
• Low self-esteem
• Lack of a significant role model
• Non-constructive use of time

Reflex workers give vital support and encouragement to young people, providing them with positive role models

Detached Project:

Friday nights 7pm -10pm our detached team engage with young people in Gilesgate and Sherburn Road.

Events:

Initiated by young people we run, along with local partners, events such as football cage, pampering nights and youth cafe events. In 2012 we will run 6 events, supporting Durham City Baptist church in outreach to local youth. We will also facilitate joint holiday clubs and residentials with churches and community centres through our junior work.

Urban Skillz:

Delivery of 10 sessions in Urban Skillz Theatre, an accredited course which uses theatre to engage youth in life issues. www.reflex.org/post/urbanskillz

UNCUT:

At the request of young people from our projects we have run group work sessions which explore the Christian faith. www.yfc.co.uk/uncut

PACMAN Project:

In partnership with local police and Investing in Children this is a grassroots, experimental project using diverse tools to improve relationships between police and young people.

Reflex Projects