Archives: Guide Entries

An entry for the mindguide

CoderDojo Foundation is a global network of free, volunteer-led, community-based programming clubs for young people. The CoderDojo movement believes that an understanding of programming languages is increasingly important in the modern world, that it is both better and easier to learn these skills early, and that nobody should be denied the opportunity to do so. The CoderDojo movement is supported by regional bodies in specific areas around the world. They work with the Foundation in addressing the needs and challenges of the Dojos in their regions.

This guide aims to empower LGBTQs+ and give them the tools to protect themselves online.

vpnMentor’s mission is to provide practical strategies for coping with adversity, bigotry, and abuse on the web, which is why they created this guide.

Whether you are part of the LGBTQ+ community or are an ally, they hope you find this guide helpful.

This pathway is co-commissioned by Oxfordshire County and District Councils for 16-24 year olds in Oxfordshire who have experienced the following issues:

  • Separation from or loss of family
  • Past family experiences such as trauma, abuse, neglect, family breakdown, parent drug and alcohol addiction, parent mental health or disability issues
  • Challenging behaviours which have resulted from their experiences
  • Needs resulting from drug and alcohol issues, anger management, low self-esteem, self-harm, mental health, learning disability and domestic abuse

Providers of YPSA include Response, Oxfordshire Youth, Connection Support, Key2 Futures, Sanctuary Housing, A2 Dominion, and Oxfordshire County Council.

The guide covers important topics, such as:

  • Understanding and embracing anxiety triggers
  • Coping techniques and preparing for life in halls
  • How to deal with financial pressures
  • Managing academic pressures
  • The importance of a healthy lifestyle

Some of the insights this guide offers are the following:

  • 42% of university students experience a serious psychological issue for which they felt they needed professional help.
  • The same percentage of students accessed counselling support last year, indicating that help is readily available at university.
  • In January 2021, 63% of students said their mental health had worsened since the start of the academic year.
  • 58% of students who struggle to manage their money say it affects their mental health negatively.

Strut Safe was founded by Rachel Chung and Alice Jackson following the murder of Sarah Everard in March of 2021. Now with over fifty volunteers across the UK, Strut Safe is able to offer free walks home in Edinburgh, as well as a free phone service for the entire UK. There is much work to be done to dismantle systemic violence against women and other marginalised groups. Strut Safe is an initiative to help anyone who needs us feel safe and supported.

How it works:

You can call their line from anywhere in the UK, and they can provide walks home in the following areas in Edinburgh: Edinburgh New Town, Edinburgh Old Town, Southside, Newington, Marchmont, Bruntsfield and Lochrin.

Users will call a central dispatcher requesting either an escort home or for the dispatcher to remain on the phone with them while they are in transit. If the user needs a walk home, the dispatcher will assign a pair of volunteers to meet the user and escort them to their destination. All information gathered from the user will remain strictly confidential.

All volunteers have been vetted and are subject to a strict code of conduct. They will also carry branded Strut Safe lanyards to confirm their association with Strut Safe.

Orchard Baptist Church have several youth groups meeting regularly. They make it their priority to welcome, encourage and nurture their youth.
They often meet up for a range of trips and activities. Currently there are three regular groups meeting: Sunday Youth, Boys’ Group and Girls’ Group.

Kidlington Baptist Church run both religious and non-religious youth groups for a multitude of ages (0-18). The groups have a variety of games, crafts, activities etc.

Hook Norton Baptist Church provide a youth group. The group starts at 5:30pm on Monday evenings during school time with something to eat. They have some fun with games and then sit down to talk about things. Aimed at 11 to 14 year olds, but open to similar ages.

Meetings: 7pm – 9pm Tuesday Evenings(term time) – Ages – 6 to 16 yrs

Home-Start works with families in communities right across the UK. Starting in the home, their approach is as individual as the people they’re helping. No judgement, it is just compassionate, confidential help and expert support.