Thrilled to be invited to meet HRH Prince Edward Earl of Wessex

We were  thrilled to be invited to a gathering at Chester Town Hall to meet HRH Prince Edward Earl of Wessex last week when he visited Chester, recognising local charities that have helped the community throughout the pandemic.

HRH Prince Edward Earl of Wessex was keen to hear from our  Chief Executive Diane Aplin about the work we have undertaken in the local community, providing unashamed love and support to under-served young people in Cheshire through our WeDiscover programme.

Social inequality is growing and, now more than ever, our young people need more opportunities and more skills. Uniquely we address both issues, through the provision of three different life-changing programmes for under-served young people, WeDiscover, WeGrow and WeBelong.

The WeDiscover programme is an online programme for young people aged 16+ who might be feeling isolated and anxious and don’t know what their next steps should be. Offering them opportunities and experiences to develop themselves to change their futures.

Diane spoke to HRH Prince Edward Earl of Wessex about what makes a good social mobility programme. Describing how our programmes encompasses a mix of gaining new qualifications, skills and experiences. Including experiences like Outward Bound where our gappies can achieve things that they never thought possible and develop their resilience and sense of self.

HRH Prince Edward Earl of Wessex was keen to hear about our inclusion of the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme. The Duke of Edinburgh award scheme has many parallels to our programmes so is a great fit. An opportunity to discover new interests and talents. A tool to develop essential skills for life and work.

Diane Aplin was proud to introduce team member Serena Etchells.  Serena has joined the team as a Virtual Mate on the WeDiscover programme. Serena herself a former participant of our WeGrow programme.

“I was immensely proud to introduce Serena to HRH Prince Edward Earl of Wessex. Our WeGrow programme offered Serena a chance to thrive in a relaxed and supported atmosphere. Serena had a transformational journey with the WeGrow programme and is now able help and support the young people on their WeDiscover journey”.

The more programmes we can run, the more opportunities the charity can create for under-served young people in your community. To find out how you can get involved with WeMindTheGap to support these unique programmes please visit the website www.wemindthegap.org.uk or find them on social media.