Over the last week we hosted 12 young people from the National Citizens Service (NCS). The NCS scheme offers opportunities to 15-17 year olds to gain confidence, develop skills and make new friends. After finishing their adventure in Wales the twelve teenagers joined us at Support U to learn about LGBT+ issues and how to build and develop a marketing campaign.
On the first day we gave them a tour of the building and told them about Support U’s work within the LGBT Community and beyond. We discussed everything related to sexuality, gender and the history of the gay rights movement and for some, was an eye opening experience. It was the first time Support U have had the opportunity to work in this way, and we were so pleased with how receptive and involved the whole group was.
Their second day with us was spent planning their end project and further developing skills that can be used as part of their showcase event. We let them take control of our Facebook and Twitter pages for the day which under supervision went well! Our Engagement Manager Nick Musson talked them through all the stages of building a marketing campaign and gave them a crash course in photoshop. They helped to come up with some great ideas, slogans and designs which we will be using over the coming months.
A week later they returned to create a banner to be displayed and carried through the Reading Pride parade. Under the watchful eye of Arts and Culture Manager Huw Tarry they produced a beautiful banner that we will show off with pride at Reading Pride.
All in all it was a great experience for all involved, and we hope they have taken something from it and will continue to spread the message of #UseLessHate into the community.