We’ve donated £1,547 to the Youth Adventure Trust (YAT), a charity helping vulnerable young people aged 11–16 in Wiltshire and Somerset.
YAT work with young people who have been referred by schools and face issues such as economic hardship, mental health struggles, bullying, domestic abuse, bereavement or gang involvement. Their mission is to build confidence, wellbeing and essential life skills through outdoor adventure.
YAT’s Adventure Programme provides three free residential camps and eight activity days across three years. Through activities like climbing, canoeing, archery, and shelter building, YAT provides experiences that improve wellbeing, build support networks and inspire brighter futures.
Our donation will specifically fund ‘Pathway Days’ – four activity days for 80 Year 9 pupils in the final year of the Adventure Programme. The days will focus on social action, finding local hobbies, and reflecting on how far the participants have come.
At the end of the programme, a bursary is available to allow them to continue taking part in a related sport or activity club until the end of Year 11.
Young people in disadvantaged communities in Wiltshire are six times less likely to access outdoor activities than their wealthier peers. By removing financial barriers and providing these activities for free, YAT breaks cycles of inequality, helping them to become more confident at school and boosting their future employability.
Mark Davey, Chief Executive at YAT, said: "We know that the YAT is only part of a young person's journey and the Pathway Days provide an essential bridge, enabling them to play a more active role in their local community.
GSA's investment in local 13- and 14-year-olds will inspire them to build the confidence and resilience they need to thrive, and positively impact their families, schools and wider community. A massive thank you to GSA for your fantastic support."
The grant followed a successful application to our Community Impact Fund, an initiative designed to support GSA customers and improve their local communities. Grants of up to £2,000 per year are available to resident groups, community projects and local charities.
The fund is made possible thanks to generous donations made by some of GSA’s suppliers, as part of their social value delivery commitments.
Sian Every, our Community Investment and Social Value Lead, said: “We’re delighted to support a project that aligns with our commitment to health, wellbeing, and skills development, and we look forward to seeing the incredible journeys these young people will take.”