Marlpool URC: Volunteer-run programme

Marlpool URC in Heanor is a volunteer-run programme for children aged 5+ targeting those in the community most in need.

Each holiday club is based on a theme, previous themes include love & friendship, solidarity, hospitality & welcome, new beginnings & hope, adventure & scavenging, welcome (diversity and inclusion), and confidence (let your light shine). These themes are often chosen to meet the current needs of the community. For instance, the club chose to focus on welcome (diversity and inclusion) after many children from refugees and victims of the Ukraine-Russia war started attending local schools.

Activities include ice-breakers, value-based talks, group work, story-telling, crafts, games, dance, drama, singing, puppet shows and nature workshops.

“Many children have improved in some sports abilities as well as their social skills such as teamwork. We have noted an improvement in the behaviour of many children. We have been blessed to hear parents reporting that some children who struggled to socialize have made new friends through our club. Friendships are being made between children across the social spectrum. We have also flagged up some children’s needs to parents and together signposted families to relevant social and health services. We have also seen many volunteers grow in confidence and develop their skills.” Rev Dr Bachelard Kaze Yemtsa

 

The organisation work with other partners to deliver the club such as Express Coaching Services, Samba Sport Coaching who lead sports and physical activities. The most popular sessions include wheelchair basketball and glow-in-the-dark sports and games. A frequent workshop has been provided by members from Shipley Eco-Action Group as well as AnimalMagic who bring around 20 animals so that the children can learn about them and even touch them.

The programme aims to offer a varied and balanced diet including fresh fruits and vegetables. Occasionally, the morning cooking workshop enables the children to make some elements of their lunch. A regular food workshop is tasting food from the world as well as using a smoothie bike with a variety of fruits and vegetables.

“Many parents have told us that many children are now eager to eat some healthy food they never had before.” Rev Dr Bachelard Kaze Yemtsa