A group of teenagers stepped up to support a local children's hospice after spending a week building confidence, learning life skills and giving back to their community.
They raised money for Hampshire children’s hospice charity Naomi and Jack’s at a Four Fun Fridays event in Andover.
The teens were taking part in Youth Impact, a five-day course, part-funded by Hampshire County Council, which replaced the National Citizen Service, or NCS.
It teaches life skills such as budgeting and first aid, while encouraging teenagers to support their community and build confidence.
Read more
Council leader excited by lido plans despite possible impact on leisure centre
'Those who say lidos are a waste of money need to get out more'
Why does Winchester City Council take ten years to decide on everything?
I cooked pasta with a top Italian chef in Winchester and it was bellisimo
They pitched up outside the Guildhall at the Four Fun Fridays event on August 15, where they collected donations and ran the tombola together.
The event was the end of a packed five days.
Youth Impact leader Harry Draycott said the course was vital and that he enjoys watching the group grow throughout the week.
“They’re all very quiet on a Monday morning,” he said, “but by the time we get to Thursday or Friday they’re all very chatty. It’s good to see them make new friends.”
He said the programme can inspire confidence and encourage local teens to get stuck into their community.
He said: “I spoke to a parent and she said it’s been so good. The young person has been calling the council and speaking to them."
Youth Impact's Summer 2026 programme delivered courses for young people across more than a dozen locations in southern England, including Winchester, Andover, Eastleigh, Southampton, Portsmouth and Basingstoke.
Running throughout July and August, the scheme visited Hampshire, Dorset, Wiltshire, West Sussex, Berkshire, Bath and Bristol, helping young people develop skills and take part in community projects.
For more go to theyouthimpact.co.uk/
Sutton Scotney-based Naomi and Jack’s provides hospice care and support for children, young adults and their families across central Southern England.
Share