The Peer Navigators Project, delivered by NEDES, is now halfway through its six-month programme, bringing together young people in Gateshead.
Since the project began in September 2025, participants aged 16–25 have been taking part in regular sessions focused on communication, confidence-building, and peer support. The programme has created a safe and welcoming space where young people can share experiences, build connections, and support one another.
Through training sessions and group discussions, participants have been developing practical skills, including how to access local services and how to guide others facing similar challenges. Many have already started to take on informal peer support roles, helping others with information, encouragement, and signposting.
Alongside these sessions, some participants have also taken part in small community-based initiatives. For example, with the support of a volunteer mentor, Halis, a group of young people organised simple outreach activities, distributing food purchased from Greggs to people experiencing homelessness. Across different weeks, 11 young people took part in these efforts, showing a growing sense of responsibility and willingness to contribute to their local community. These activities are expected to continue in the coming weeks.
The project has also supported participants’ wellbeing by reducing feelings of isolation and helping them feel more connected to their local community. Feedback so far shows that young people feel more confident speaking in groups, more comfortable reaching out for support, and more willing to help others.
As the project moves into its final phase, NEDES will continue to support participants in strengthening their skills and building their confidence as peer navigators. The team will also focus on capturing learning and outcomes to inform future delivery.
For more information about the project or to get involved in future opportunities, please contact:
Email: info@nedes.org.uk
Project Coordinator (Nurcan): +44 7931 650541
