A SALISBURY-BASED charity helping vulnerable young people turn their lives around has been handed a major funding boost – bringing fresh hope to those at risk of homelessness.

ALABARÉ has secured nearly £20,000 from The National Lottery Community Fund to continue its popular wellbeing programme for 16 to 25-year-olds across Wiltshire and Hampshire.

The initiative goes far beyond traditional support, offering everything from bushcraft and sailing to street dance and climbing, all designed to build confidence, resilience and life skills.

Climbing to new heights! (Picture: ALABARÉ)

Last year alone, more than 100 sessions were delivered, alongside practical workshops in cooking, bike maintenance and language skills.

Young people enjoy the Wellbeing Badgers Camp (Picture: ALABARÉ)

The impact has been significant, with 88% of young people reporting improved emotional wellbeing and a more positive outlook on life.

Among them is Ben, who has been supported by the charity for the past 18 months.

Reflecting on a recent sailing trip, he said: “It’s been absolutely phenomenal, the people, the relationships built, the confidence boost you get.

Ben loved the chance to go sailing. (Picture: ALABARÉ)

“It’s really amazing to see everyone working together as one big team and watching, not just myself, but other people be the best they can be.

“This is the first time I’ve been sailing. The first day, it was petrifying; I was so anxious, but it’s been a pleasure to be with everyone.

“I’ve realised that everyone is going to be scared of something they’ve never done before, and at the end of it, it’s amazing to feel so proud of yourself for getting out there and doing it.”

A Tall Ships Youth Trust meeting. (Picture: ALABARÉ)

ALABARÉ wellbeing lead Gemma Snell said the programme is about helping young people discover their potential.

“My job is to work with our young people across ALABARÉ, developing their wellbeing and primarily we do that by connecting them to blue and green spaces, so within nature, with other people, learning new skills.

“Utilising these opportunities means they have chances to come out of their comfort zone, and when they stretch themselves, that’s when they discover what they’re really capable of and just how resilient they are.

“I think it’s a privilege to be the catalyst in a young person’s journey and seeing how much they can develop as an individual.

“They start believing in themselves, there’s that belief that they are capable, they are lovable, and they’re worth more than they might think. I get so much joy from that.

“[Support from The National Lottery Community Fund] means we’ll be able to carry on the work we’re doing for young people, developing their wellbeing and mental health. That’s what they’re going to need to be able to go on to the next stage and live independent and fulfilling lives.”

Paula Jenkins, head of young people services, added the programme is “breaking the cycle of homelessness in action” – giving young people the confidence and tools they need to move forward.