Courtney Sleith

New personal development programme for people age 16-25

Fairbridge + is a new six week programme that will help young people develop the skills they need to move forward.

“I’m in a better place mentally. Life can still be hard, but I feel like I can cope with it now.”

Last year Courtney Sleith, aged 24, was in a difficult place. She was homeless, on drugs and involved in anti-social behaviour. Things got so bad with her mental health that she attempted suicide.

It was the mental health team in hospital who told her about The Prince’s Trust. Courtney didn’t know what to expect but she decided to give it a go.

She said, “I had nothing to lose so I thought I might as well go along. As soon as I arrived I felt welcomed by the staff and got chatting to the other people on the programme.

“I did nearly everything that was available. We did outdoor activities like bouldering and I took a few courses that I now have qualifications in, like First Aid and communication skills.

“By far my favourite part of the programme was the staff and the other young people. The staff are so friendly, and nothing is too much trouble. They helped me to get drug and alcohol counselling with another charity which really helped me.

“It’s my dream to be a chef and I’ve just started a course at college studying professional cookery. Taking part in the programme really helped turn my life around, I’m now volunteering with The Prince’s Trust as a Young Ambassador because I want to use my experience to encourage people who might be in a similar place to give it a try. You get out of it what you put in, so my advice would be get stuck in!”

Fairbridge + is a new six-week programme that is taking place in Belfast from 4th November to 13th December and aims to help people aged 16-25 develop the skills they need to move forward. 

The programme offers one to one support, outdoor activities, well-being sessions and the chance to gain qualifications including Essential Skills. One to one counselling is also available if required.

Know someone who would be interested? There is an information day on 28th October for people to come along and find out more. Register your interest or find out more by calling 0800 842 842 or email
[email protected].

Last updated 4 years 6 months ago