Spotlight on Rekindle
By Karen Greenough
On arrival at the Rekindle offices in Newtown one August Tuesday lunchtime, I was greeted by one of the administrators, Michele. I commented on how quiet the place was and she let me know that most of the team had headed over to Welshpool to look around the brand new hub there, which was due to be opening very soon. This is an exciting step for Rekindle as it means that even more young people across the region can access early, person-centred support when needed.
Michele gave me a quick tour of the building, the main “hub” area being a bright relaxing space with sofas, tables and chairs where young people can come in to sit quietly, have a cuppa and a chat and, if they want to, get involved in activities such as gardening in the courtyard, cooking or arts and crafts. There is a kitchen, a small, comfortable room for 1:1s and counselling and a larger room for meetings and activities. I asked Michele to explain a bit about what Rekindle does.
How does Rekindle support young people?
Rekindle provides support for Young People between the ages of 16 and 25 and this support can be broken down into 3 sections
Wellbeing Support
This is the type of practical support all young people can benefit from such as help with college, university or job applications, applying for a driving licence, help with budgeting or managing debt. Other support around relationships or family. The list goes on. The support is tailored to the young persons needs and you can find out more HERE
Counselling
Counselling provided by Rekindle is person-centred and there can be around a 3 month waiting list for this but you will continue to be supported by Rekindle while you wait. The counselling is an early intervention counselling but if you have more serious mental health conditions or your need is more urgent you will be supported to find more appropriate services.
Weekly Hub
The Drop in Hub in runs on a Thursday in Newtown and at the new Welshpool location on a Tuesday. There is a packed program of events for upcoming months with activities and trips which can be found on Rekindle’s Facebook page or by picking up a leaflet from one of their centres.
New Welshpool Hub
The new space in Welshpool will provide the same services as Newtown, ie wellbeing, counselling and their drop in Hub taking place on a Tuesday between 1pm and 4pm. To find out more about the new Welshpool hub follow this LINK
Home Start Packs
Michele was very keen to show me the Home Start Bundles which thanks to funding from the Fine and County Foundation, Rekindle have been able to provide for their service users who are setting up in their own properties. Packed with practical essentials such as tea towels, a washing basket and a kettle as well as some small comforts that make a house a home.
To qualify for these items you must meet certain criteria, for example you must be 16- 25 and live within the catchment area and have moved into your own home in the last 12 months. This initiative is more than just items but an extension of the support that Rekindle already provides it’s service users with helping to build independence and stability.
To learn more about the Home Start Bundles and the qualifying criteria Follow this LINK
How to access suport from Rekindle
You can refer yourself to Rekindle by completing their secure online referral form. A referral can also be made on your behalf by a friend, family member or professional with your permission.
You are also welcome to contact the team at Rekindle through their website by visiting their premises in during drop-in times, phoning them on 01686 722222 or emailing help@rekindle.org.uk