The Voice
The Voice is a group that gives young people a chance to meet with their peers to discuss mental health, learn life skills and have fun. In the next academic year 2024/2025, we aim to have two Voice groups for ages 12 to 15 and 16 to 18, the ideal age entry level for joining the older group would be 16 to benefit as much as possible from The Voice.
Once a Voice member reaches their 18th birthday, there will be an opportunity to apply to become a Voice Champion (previously named Voice Ambassador) to further develop themselves with support from Kids Inspire and give something back to their communities.
The Voice was established in early 2018 to help those who may lack confidence or have feelings of anxiety.
An ideal Voice member would be a young person who is keen to make new friends and learn new skills to support their confidence, growth and emotional wellbeing.
Being a teenager can be hard, their brains are changing, emotions are running high and socialising can seem like a challenge. Studies have shown that having good social relationships in your teens can help with many other parts of your life such as self-confidence, developing social skills and self-esteem.
Members of The Voice with facilitators Carla and Jane
The Voice helps young people develop social skills, learn about self-identity and practice new skills while in a safe space surrounded by a supportive group at their own pace (and pizza)!
“After joining the Voice she smiles & spends time with us instead of retreating to isolation in her room.” – Mum
Voice Facilitator, Romany and Voice Ambassadors delivering at The ECVYS Youth Voice Conference
“The members of The Voice listen, respect and support one another. It is a safe space for young people to express how they are feeling and acknowledge the feelings of others.
The Voice aids the young people to grow in confidence, make friends and express themselves. It's wonderful watching their characters develop throughout their journeys.”
Romany Whurr, Community Engagement Team
When do The Voice next meet?
When – From Wednesday 4th September 2024, then every other Wednesday (Term time only)
Time – 4.30pm to 6pm
Where – Kids Inspire, Hargrave House, Hollycroft, Great Baddow, CM2 7FW, Chelmsford .
Please note transport must be organised by the parent/caregiver or young person (16+)
What does a Voice session look like?
Sessions are typically structured as check ins, activity, discussion, and roundup.
When arriving you will go in to our Voice room where there will be pizza and drinks, at the start everyone has a catch-up with one another.
For the next 30-45 minutes we will do an activity or a speaker will come in to talk to the group.
Towards the end of the session, the group have free-flowing conversations. We then round up the session and briefly discuss what we will be doing next time.
Occasional sessions will take place outside of Kids Inspire. Trips out will be communicated and organised in advance.
Information for secondary schools
If you would like us to visit your school to present a talk about The Voice to your students please contact the team.
Information for parents/Carers
For more information about The Voice, including any upcoming drop-in events for potential new members, please contact voice@kidsinspire.org.uk.
The Voice Highlights
Our Voice members are invited to go along to fantastic trips and be part of Kids Inspire projects.
By taking part in these activities members develop their confidence skills, problem-solving and learn practical life skills.
Previously we set sail from Brightlingsea, worked as a team at an escape room, presented workshops on social media safety and more!
Read all about our Sailing Trip.
Gwen, Voice Champion, channeling her inner captain.
“It is our own safe space to talk about anything worrying us”
Holiday Club
An important part of our outreach activity.
Voice Ambassador shares his story
How mentoring helped Josh’s social anxiety
Social Media and Mental Health
Amelia (Voice Champion) gives their top tips on how to manage wellbeing online.