Bursary to help thousands of youngsters access residentials

The Brathay Bursary aims to break down financial barriers, prioritising the young people whose schools or families cannot afford to send them on a residential. 

Its chief executive Teresa Jennings said: “No young person should miss out due to financial constraints.”

The charity will focus on supporting children over the next five years to experience a life-changing stay at Brathay in Ambleside, Cumbria. 

Launched at Westminster by Brathay and Cumbrian MPs Simon Fell and Tim Farron, the bursary addresses the cost of living crisis and the extra pressures on schools and families to cover the cost of residential experiences. 

Jennings added: “Whether it’s scrambling up a hillside or canoeing on the lake, there are so many activities which can really help build confidence, resilience and self-awareness in young people who might otherwise be struggling with their social and emotional development all supported by our expert facilitation.

“The outdoors is exhilarating, but it comes with challenges - mental and physical - that require, say, problem solving or teamwork. Learning these skills away from home in a new environment and spending time outside can help with young people who are struggling for one reason or another.

“But when money is tight, not least during a cost-of-living crisis, families or schools may not have the funds to be able to help children who are struggling with their mental health. And these children may not be able to enjoy the uplifting opportunities of the great outdoors. The Brathay Bursary hopes to address that.”

The charity aims to source donations for the bursary from businesses and other groups which can help. It says that £3,000 will support up to ten young people to attend a three-day residential whereas £45,000 will support up to 150 young people. 

Andy Watson, Brathay’s chair of trustees said: “Imagine the impact of 5,000 more young people experiencing outdoor residentials. Its not just about them, its about their families, schools, and neighbourhoods. We all become part of that transformative journey.”