Lets Thrive!
As the Shine Project we have been supporting teenage girls physical and mental health for nearly 15 years. Shine was originally established to combat low self-esteem in young girls, most specifically preventing teenage pregnancy. Nearly 15 years on Shine is now a registered charity serving the local area and has developed, using student steering groups and service user feedback into a comprehensive course, covering areas in physical and mental health whilst retaining its focus on teenage girls.
Over the years we have become acutely aware that support is needed for all not just one gender. Our partner schools and organisations have been asking for support for boys for many years. They have seen a shift in how boys are coping in today’s society and with male suicide and knife crime on the rise, pressure for young men to appear physically stronger leading to gym and steroid addiction and county lines becoming ever more prevalent, it is clear that young men are in need of support. In direct response to this and with the support of The National Lottery’s Community Fund we launched The Thrive Initiative in September 2021
The Thrive Initiative utilises all the tools of the highly successful Shine course but has a few twists, for example discussing the impact of testosterone on the body and a ‘how to shave’ tutorial. The 7-week wellbeing course will provide students with the opportunity to explore subjects closely related to their physical and mental health, in small groups of up to 12 people. It covers subjects such as male stereotypes, flaws of the media, healthy relationships, positive communication (particularly around emotions), respect (including views of women and girls), bullying, management of social media and gaming, healthy eating, exercise and identifying talents and aspirations. Each session is between 1 to 1 and 1/2 hours and includes practical activities ranging from self-care, team building games, arts and crafts, mindfulness, and exercise classes. All activities have been carefully selected to encourage the students to build friendships, embed the knowledge gained in discussion times, help the students engage in activities promoting their physical and mental health and/or build healthy coping mechanisms developing their emotional resilience.
When we established our boys course we also wanted to create a cohesiveness between the genders by challenging the stereotypes and unconscious bias on both sides creating understanding, respect and stronger relationships across the community of young people in Dorset.
If you would like to access the Thrive course, volunteer or would just like to know more please contact our Operations Manager Anne Clarkson via anne@shineproject.org.uk