NextGen - Wrapping up this Chapter

As we come to the end of this phase of NextGen it's a great opportunity to reflect on everything that's been achieved so far. While this marks the conclusion of this section of the project, it's certainly not the end of the journey.

Over the past few months, we've worked alongside MakeGood to renovate the garden space behind the Cat's Cauldron in Stockport to develop a community garden area for community groups to use.  The work completed so far has laid a strong foundation, and we're excited to continue building on this success as we move into the next stage.

Looking ahead, we'll be working with more young people to create meaningful work experience opportunities and we cant wait to share updates as they happen. 

One of the highlights of this phase has been our work with Cat's Cauldron!

Throughout the project, the group worked together to create an area where community groups and local young people can utilise the space for sessions or just as a hang out space.  With guidance and support from Sarah, whose involvement was instrumental throughout the process, participants developed their ideas from concept through to completion.

Sarah gave our cohort the freedom to design the space and come forward with their ideas on what they would like to have in the garden, helping the group overcome challenges, develop new skills, and ensure the project reflected the vision shared by everyone involved.

The result was a lovely vibrant area, showcasing the creativity, hard work, and dedication of everyone who took part.

The project culminated in a special event held last week, providing an opportunity to celebrate everything the group had achieved together.

The official opening of the garden was on the 8th July, where our cohort and staff that have supported the whole process had the opportunity to view the space and reflect on everyone's hard work. We had a few activities to do as well which included card games and crafts for an upcoming project the Cat's Cauldron are creating.

One of the group said:

​"I found my time with NextGen at Cat's Cauldron really helpful. Working on the garden project helped me build key teamwork, collaboration, and problem-solving skills, and it made a huge positive difference to my mental health and confidence."

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Although this chapter has come to an end, the journey is far from over. We'd like to thank everyone who has contributed their time, creativity, and support throughout this phase of the project.

We're looking forward to sharing what's next as the project continues to grow, with new opportunities, collaborations, and events on the horizon. Stay tuned for more updates—we're excited to bring you along for the next stage of the journey.

NextGen Stockport is PIE’s inclusive work experience pilot programme, designed for young people for whom traditional placements may not be accessible, suitable or realistic. It also helps organisations offer meaningful opportunities in a more flexible and supported way. NextGen is for young people aged 16+ who are not currently in education, employment or training, or are care experienced or unsure of their next step.

NextGen restarts in September! If you think it might be for you, or someone you know, please get in touch here. If you are an organisation who might be able to offer support / get involved please get in touch with shelley@pieuk.org