Scottish Catholic Observer

A parish youth event in Paisley Diocese is encouraging young people to ‘build a better future.’

St Peter’s Catholic Church in Paisley and St Matthew’s Church in Kilmarnock have just completed their second year of the novel programme aimed at helping young people realise their potential.

Vides UK youth week, founded by the Salesian Sisters in 1987, returned to the parish with their hard working volunteers in order to provide a fun-filled week for 30 youngsters aged 8-16.

Part of the three to five year programme, the aim of the youth camp is to allow the young people to reach their potential, and to encourage them to want to build a better future for themselves and their peers.

Susan Toal, a member of St Peter’s parish council, said: “There were loads of children here this year. I think the kids who came along really enjoyed it, and many of the kids who were here last year came this year too.”

Vides UK and St Peter’s have credited the youth volunteers as being key to the success of the youth camp, as Susan explained that the children enjoyed spending time with them.

“They all seemed to thoroughly enjoy it, especially their day trip down to Ayr. There were lots of organised games, and a showcase of all the work they done.

“I spoke to the children and they’ve all said they enjoyed their company.”

As the second year of the youth week came to a close, Vides explained that due to its success, they hope to keep it going for another three.

Laura Whiteley, a Vides UK spokesperson, said: “When we first spoke with [parish priest] Canon Eddie Cameron, it was agreed that we would do three to five years, depending on what the community wanted, but due to it’s great success it will definitely be five years now.

“It was quite popular, and the children that attended had an amazing time building relationships and new friendships, which is really what it’s all about.”

She added that this year’s youth week was ‘just as good as last year.’

“It’s all about building the young people up into becoming better people, bringing out their best qualities and teaching them that not everyone is the same,” she said.