Our Community Spotlight Series has been launched to amplify the positive stories of young people, community leaders, those with lived experience and other stakeholders from the communities we serve. We want to hear about how young people are facilitating positive change within their communities, provide advice and insight into violence prevention, the work that community organisations are doing within Greater Manchester and real stories of positive change.

Over the past 23 years, WAVE have been working in the communities of Bolton offering valuable confidence building, exciting outdoor activities & leadership training to children, young people, families and vulnerable adults.

The programmes are led by volunteers and staff with lived experiences, creating a sense of belonging and encouraging people of all backgrounds to make positive contributions to their community.

Not only do their activities encourage communities to be active with rock climbing, mountain biking and kayaking, but they also foster an appreciation for local green spaces, supporting the ethos of respect and looking after the environment. The events are organised for individuals and groups of all ages and abilities with an emphasis on promoting health and wellbeing in a supportive environment. 

“Violence is being replaced by forming healthy habits which provide not only a good burst of adrenaline but more importantly a sense of pride and ownership – it works!”
– Graham Wood, Project Manager/Founder

The work that WAVE does aids in reducing and preventing violence within the communities through a focus on individual progression and development, rather than just offering ‘an experience.’ 

“Lives are being changed and this will continue to have a greater impact as we train community leaders to act as role models for others.”
– Graham Wood, Project Manager/Founder

Read more on their team sports and group activities:
www.waveadventure.org.uk
Facebook: Wave Adventure UK
Twitter: @waveoutdoors
Instagram: @wave.outdoors 

WAVE is part of the Violence Reduction Unit’s community-led programme in Bolton. WAVE have partnered with a number of other local voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations to develop an alliance that works together to deliver targeted sports and arts activity, interactive workshops and peer mentor sessions, and work with young people and their families to improve relationships. The VRU has worked with 10GM – a joint venture of VCSE sector infrastructure organisations in Greater Manchester, and StreetGames – an organisation that uses the power of sport to transform lives and broaden ambitions, to drive forward this programme of work.

Article posted on: 14/11/2022 11:11am